Our Work
Our Approach to Lasting Water and Sanitation
At Water For People, we believe that access to water and sanitation is a fundamental right for everyone. We work to reach people with clean water, dignified bathrooms, and the tools and knowledge to maintain these systems into the future.
System strengthening is a key component of Water For People programming which ensures sustainability even after the program has ended. Water For People has played a vital role and contributed a range of technical expertise to build human and institutional capacity especially at national, district, sub county, and local levels.
Water as a Business
Water For People Uganda has explored different management models to support sustainable water systems. We use a Water as a Business (WaaB) model that leverages the private sector and water entrepreneurs to manage water systems while creating jobs for handpump mechanics, private operators, water entrepreneurs, and kiosk and handpump attendants. Water For People trains these entrepreneurs to manage and repair water systems. To improve water quality, we promote water safety plans that help protect water sources and reduce contamination.
Sanitation as a Business
Water For People promotes a market-based approach to sanitation by working with sanitation businesses and testing ways to increase the supply and demand of sanitation services. Sanitation efforts are researched through the Sanitation Hub (SaniHub), a team of engineers that tests technologies to meet community needs. The SaniHub has developed technologies such as the Gulper for simpler pit-emptying, the Decentralized Fecal Sludge Treatment (DEFAST) Plant to treat fecal sludge in areas without sewer systems, and the mobile transfer tank for safe and efficient waste transport.
Water Resources Management
Water Resources Management (WRM) stands as a fundamental element in Water For People's approach to sustainable development. WRM underscores the importance of coordinated and comprehensive water resource management, recognizing the intricate connections between social, economic, and environmental factors.
At Water For People, we prioritize WRM to ensure a holistic perspective in addressing water challenges and promoting sustainable community development.
Additional Approaches
Additional ways Water For People is increasing sustainable water and sanitation coverage.
Hygiene
While water and sanitation infrastructure are important, people must also understand the importance of using it. That’s why education about safe hygiene practices is included in all interventions.
WASH at School
Training teachers and school health clubs on proper water, sanitation, and hygiene practices, as well as menstrual hygiene management
WASH in Healthcare
Supporting strong and sustainable WASH in healthcare facilities to promote community health