The main objectives of the WASH programme are to:

• Increase sustainable access to clean, safe, and affordable drinking water for households, schools, and health facilities.

• Reduce waterborne and hygiene-related diseases through improved sanitation and hygiene practices.

• Strengthen community capacity to manage, protect, and maintain local water resources.

• Promote dignity, safety, and privacy through the construction of improved sanitation facilities, especially for women and children.

• Support climate-resilient water systems that benefit both people and livestock.

GWDA implements the WASH programme through the following key activities:

• Construction of water reservoirs (berkads) and earth dams to harvest and store rainwater.

• Drilling, rehabilitation, and protection of water points.

• Building and upgrading sanitation facilities such as household and communal latrines.

• Hygiene promotion campaigns focusing on handwashing, safe waste disposal, and food hygiene.

• Distribution of hygiene kits and water storage containers to vulnerable households.

• Training of Water Management Committees to ensure long-term sustainability of facilities.

The programme primarily serves:

• Rural and agro-pastoral households

• Women and girls who are most affected by water scarcity

• Children in schools and early childhood centers

• Livestock-dependent families

• Communities affected by drought and climate change

Through this programme, GWDA aims to achieve:

• Increased daily access to safe and reliable drinking water

• Reduced incidence of diarrhea and other waterborne diseases

• Improved sanitation coverage and safer community environments

• Stronger local ownership and sustainable maintenance of water systems

• Improved school attendance, especially for girls