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Between 2000 and 2022, there has been a significant global decline in open defecation rates. However, as of 2022, 36 countries still report rates ranging from 5% to 25%.
Open defecation poses a persistent challenge that extends beyond mere inconvenience. It strikes at the heart of public health, community dignity, behavioural change, and socio-economic development. It is not merely about constructing toilets; rather, it involves fostering a collective commitment to transforming sanitation practices for the betterment of society.
A World Bank study in Liberia situated along the West Coast of Africa, unveiled a shocking 35% prevalence of open defecation, affecting approximately 1.8 million people. This rate surpasses other Sub-Saharan African countries by 15%, with rural areas bearing the brunt, where up to 85% still practice open defecation.
Amidst this challenge, Liberia is actively working to eliminate open defecation in five counties: Bong, Lofa, Nimba, Montserrado (rural), and Grand Bassa. Leading this effort is the Countywide Sanitation Activity (CWSA), a consortium funded by USAID.
Open defecation has profound implications for public health, particularly in this country where waterborne diseases are prevalent. Insufficient sanitation exacerbates the spread of illnesses, leading to heightened health risks and increased healthcare burdens. Beyond health, open defecation negatively impacts community dignity and hampers social and economic progress. It is a daily challenge that requires immediate attention for convenience and as a crucial step toward holistic societal well-being.
Adding to the urgency, poor sanitation in Liberia exacts a heavy economic toll, costing approximately $17.5 million each year, as reported by the World Bank. This staggering figure underscores the imperative for immediate action to mitigate the detrimental effects of open defecation on both public health and the economy.
CWSA adopts a comprehensive approach to end open defecation, targeting various aspects of the issue. The initiative prioritizes enhanced sanitation governance, adoption of behavioral change, strengthened sanitation markets, and increased financing for sanitation. These pillars collectively form a strategic framework aimed at creating lasting transformations in communities beyond just the provision of facilities or infrastructure.
A critical component of this initiative is the introduction of the area-wide sanitation (AWS) planning approach, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable coverage to achieve sanitation goals within entire administrative units. By leveraging evidence-based analysis and adaptable programming, AWS aims to extend sanitation services to all residents within a target area.
Recognizing that a solution is only effective if widely adopted, CWSA partnered with the Evergreen Waste Recycling Institute to design and introduce "Quee" Stools and "Quee" Pans. This innovative solution ensures accessibility of sanitation solutions, especially in rural and vulnerable communities by using cost-effective local resources and bamboo, instead of expensive standard designs and materials. With this, CWSA aims to overcome financial barriers, making safe sanitation accessible to those facing economic constraints.
Making significant strides in mobilizing community and governmental support for sanitation improvements, CWSA has also trained over 300 local leaders across 30 communities, preparing them to champion actions against OD and engage more effectively in decision-making processes related to sanitation.
To consolidate these efforts and ensure transformative changes, the consortium has developed a social and behavior change (SBC) strategy. This strategy aims to provide a clear roadmap for altering behaviors and social norms surrounding sanitation in Liberia.
To improve coordination among Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) stakeholders, CWSA has revitalized County WASH Coordination Meetings. These meetings aim to facilitate knowledge exchange and enhance sector activity visibility, leading to more coordinated and impactful efforts to end open defecation.
While CWSA has made commendable progress, the journey towards eradicating OD in Liberia is fraught with challenges. The need for continuous engagement and capacity building among local businesses, community leaders, and government entities remains crucial. Furthermore, the scaling and replication of successful interventions across different counties require sustained effort and adaptation to local contexts.
In March 2024, a significant milestone was achieved, the five counties came together to sign a joint resolution to end open defecation. The commitment by County Councils to allocate a portion of their budgets towards sanitation projects, marked a pivotal shift towards local investment in WASH initiatives. CWSA has garnered unprecedented support from the County Councils in Bong, Lofa, Nimba, Montserrado (rural), and Grand Bassa. Their commitment to integrate sanitation financing into county development plans, allocate funds for sanitation projects, and collaborate on policies represents a fundamental change indicating a collective acknowledgment of the urgency to address open defecation.
Referring to this achievement, Nicole Rock, County-Wide Sanitation Activity (Athena Infonomics) urged the involvement of all Liberians in ending open defecation in the various counties, emphasizing the need for government involvement alongside the citizenry in ending open defecation in Liberia.
Aiming to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (water and sanitation for all by 2030), the USAID-funded consortium, is led by Population Services International (PSI), and includes Concern Worldwide, Gusceman, Inc. and Athena Infonomics. Athena Infonomics is excited to lead the governance pillar within this consortium, at both a national and county level. With a focus on national-level institutions and public finance activities, we bring analytical insights to the forefront, creating an enabling environment for the initiative. We intend to leverage our expertise for impactful, evidence-based solutions and utilize data to guide informed decision-making.
Read more about our role in this project here.