World Toilet Day (WTD) is a poignant reminder of the stark reality faced by billions around the globe who lack access to safe sanitation facilities. The 2023 theme, ‘Accelerating Change,’ takes inspiration from the story of a hummingbird trying to extinguish a large fire with water droplets from its beak. This tale underscores the idea that even small contributions can be part of solving significant problems. This WTD is a rallying call to address one of the most fundamental yet often overlooked aspects of human dignity and public health.
‘Accelerate Change’ , and in Nepali ‘परिवर्तनको गति बढाउदै’
According to the latest data from the United Nations, a staggering 3.5 billion people worldwide still lack access to safe toilets, while 419 million continue to practice open defecation. These statistics paint a grim picture of the challenges we face in ensuring basic sanitation for all. Despite progress in some regions, the global community must remain steadfast in its commitment to eradicate this pressing issue.
Nepal, a country that has made significant strides in achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the ongoing struggle. While Nepal celebrated ODF status in 2019, recent data indicates a concerning slippage, with approximately 5% of the population still lacking access to toilets. In regions like Karnali, where the number of people without toilets remains high at around 172,631, the need for sustained efforts is evident.
The consequences of inadequate sanitation extend far beyond inconvenience. Open defecation poses serious health risks, contributing to the spread of diseases and directly impacting child mortality rates. We must recognize sanitation as a fundamental human right and prioritize its provision to all communities, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
SUSWA aim to construct and improve over 6000 toilets in its working Palikas (municipalities) in collaboration with local communities and governments. Such grassroots efforts play a crucial role in ensuring that the benefits of improved sanitation reach those who need it the most.
Events that took on World Toilet Day
On World Toilet Day, our focus was on envisioning the changes necessary to accelerate the journey towards universal access to safe sanitation in Karnali. We marked this occasion by orchestrating a series of impactful events, including extensive public awareness campaigns that garnered widespread participation, with hundreds of individuals actively joining the cause. Moreover, in Darma Salyan, we took tangible steps to support those affected by the recent Jajarkot earthquake by distributing essential sanitation products. These efforts underscore our commitment to addressing pressing sanitation challenges and fostering resilient communities in the face of adversity.
Distributing sanitation products to the residents of Darma, Salyan
Residents from Sinja, Jumla participating in a rally on World Toilet Day
In conclusion, as we commemorate World Toilet Day and reflect on the challenges and opportunities ahead, let us not limit ourselves to raising awareness alone. We must take concrete actions to turn our aspirations into reality. By working together, hand in hand, we can accelerate the change needed to ensure that every individual has access to clean and safe sanitation facilities. In doing so, we pave the way for healthier, more equitable communities that will benefit generations to come. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment and relentless in our efforts towards achieving this vital goal.
