Group Advocates Huge Investments In Water, Hygiene For Economic Development

Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) a media metworking group in Bauchi State, says  investing in water, sanitation and hygiene will generates substantial economic returns and developmen.

Chairman of the Network, Mr David Ayodele made the assertion in an interview with a reporter on Thursday in Bauch.

He said that investing in water, sanitation and hygiene, not only served as a fundamental necessity for public health, education and societal benefits but would also develop the country.

Ayodele noted that lack of access to adequate sanitation and clean drinking water as well as poor hygiene, increased the rapid spread of disease.

“It also contributes to malnutrition, increase the number of disadvantaged women, undermine economic growth, and threaten development, peace and securit.

“It creates barrier for women and girls’ education, limited care for young children, literacy, leisure and reduced  opportunities to participate in the development of communities,” he said.

Mr Ayodele further stressed that Investments in sanitation and drinking water  would lead to increased economic productivity.

“Inadequate sanitation imposes a high economic cost through impacts on health and tourism, as well as on treatment costs.”

He explained that people without access to water and sanitation, were caught up in a vicious cycle that led to poverty, which prevented people from access to service.

The chairman, however, appealed to governments, to improve access to safe water supply, by reducing its distance from people.

Ayodele further advocated for  governments to explore an approach that encompassed budget programming for the entire sector.

“This approach ideally includes key aspects such as political commitment, leadership and governance reforms, to enhance the water as an investment opportunity.” he said.

NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi