Guidance on the Development of an Integrated WASH, Health, and Nutrition Project

Bay and Bakol Region, Somalia

Amidst the arid landscapes of the Bay and Bakool regions in Somalia, the availability of clean water and sanitation transcends mere convenience, constituting a fundamental determinant of community health and well-being. Recognizing the profound impact of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) on residents' lives, the Institute of Development and Training Consultants (IDTC) played a significant role on the WASH Baseline Survey initiative. This survey, integral to IDTC's dedication to sustainable development, aimed to evaluate current WASH conditions, pinpoint challenges, and establish the foundation for targeted interventions.

The Landscape

Bay and Bakool, characterized by their semi-arid climate, faced considerable challenges in ensuring water security and proper sanitation. Limited access to clean water sources, coupled with inadequate sanitation facilities, posed a threat to the health and resilience of the communities inhabiting these regions. Recognizing the urgency of addressing these challenges, IDTC initiated the WASH Baseline Survey to inform evidence-based interventions.

Survey Objectives

Assessment of Current WASH Infrastructure: The survey meticulously examined the existing water sources, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices prevalent in the communities. This involved on-the-ground assessments, interviews with community members, and a thorough mapping of the WASH landscape.
Identification of Health Impacts: Understanding the direct correlation between WASH and health, the survey delved into the health outcomes associated with current conditions. It aimed to identify prevalent waterborne diseases, assess maternal and child health indicators, and gauge the overall well-being of the communities.
Community Engagement and Feedback: The survey placed a strong emphasis on community participation. Engaging with local residents provided invaluable insights into their needs, challenges, and aspirations. This participatory approach ensured that the interventions proposed were rooted in the lived experiences of the communities.

Methodology

IDTC employed a robust methodology for the WASH Baseline Survey, blending analysis of quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques:

Infrastructure Assessment: This encompassed the assessment of the functionality, accessibility, and safety of the existing water sources and sanitation facilities.
Community Surveys and Interviews: Surveys and interviews were conducted with community members to gather quantitative data on WASH practices. This included water usage patterns, sanitation habits, and hygiene awareness.
Health Data Collection: Health professionals collaborated with the survey teams to collect health-related data. This involved examining the prevalence of waterborne diseases, maternal and child health indicators, and the overall health status of the population.
Stakeholder Consultations: The survey included consultations with local authorities, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. This ensured a comprehensive understanding of the broader context and facilitated collaborative decision-making.

Community Centric Approach

At the core of IDTC's approach was a commitment to community empowerment. The survey was not a detached data collection exercise but a collaborative effort that involved community members in the process. This ensured that the proposed interventions aligned with the cultural context and were embraced by the communities.

Anticipated Outcomes

The insights gathered from the WASH Baseline Survey served as a roadmap for targeted interventions. IDTC envisioned a future where communities in Bay and Bakool have improved access to clean water, enhanced sanitation facilities, and heightened awareness of hygiene practices. The anticipated outcomes included a reduction in waterborne diseases, improved maternal and child health, and overall community resilience against environmental challenges

Conclusion

In undertaking the WASH Baseline Survey, IDTC exemplified its dedication to creating sustainable and community-driven development solutions. By unraveling the intricacies of the current WASH landscape in Bay and Bakool, this initiative laid the foundation for transformative interventions that will undoubtedly shape a healthier and more resilient future for the residents of these regions.

IDTC