Significant Progress in Sanitary Toilet Usage and Access to Safe Water in Low-Income Urban Settlements

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Brac have reported significant improvements in sanitary toilet usage and access to safe water in low-income urban settlements over the past five years. The Integrated Rehabilitation Programme for Health and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Services, funded by the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Program (KAAP) through the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), has seen a remarkable rise in sanitary toilet usage from 10% to 69%, alongside improvements in access to safe water, maternal healthcare, and hygiene practices. Daily access to safe water has increased from 51 to 80%, while the use of sanitary pads among women has climbed from 53 to 90%.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sanitary toilet usage has increased from 10% to 69% in low-income urban settlements over the past five years.
  • Daily access to safe water has increased from 51 to 80% in the targeted areas.
  • The use of sanitary pads among women has climbed from 53 to 90% due to the program's efforts.
  • The uptake of antenatal care for at least four visits has risen from 45 to 71%, and postnatal care coverage increased from 21 to 49%.
  • 94% of households now have access to their drinking water, and mosquito control activities have expanded from 54 to 85% of targeted areas.
  • The program's focus on essential infrastructure and long-term health and hygiene practices has led to significant improvements in the underserved urban areas.
  • Collaboration among organizations, institutions, and community members is crucial for addressing urban inequality and improving quality of life in slums.
  • Investment in the health and WASH sector yields significant returns, with every dollar invested generating $4.30 in benefits.

Statistics:

  • Sanitary toilet usage has increased by 59% in past five years (from 10% to 69%).
  • Access to safe water has increased from 51 to 80% (a 29% increase).
  • Use of sanitary pads among women has risen from 53 to 90% (a 37% increase).
  • Uptake of antenatal care for at least four visits has increased from 45 to 71% (a 26% increase).
  • Postnatal care coverage has increased from 21 to 49% (a 28% increase).
  • 94% of households now have access to their drinking water.
  • Mosquito control activities have expanded from 54 to 85% of targeted areas (a 31% increase).

Sources:

  • Brac Centre in Dhaka, at the National Dissemination Workshop on Wednesday.
  • A press release issued on Wednesday by Brac.
  • King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Program (KAAP) through the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
  • Daily access to safe water has increased from 51 to 80% (a 29% increase).