13/10/2020

#GlobalHandwashingDay: achieving hand hygiene for all through a holistic WASH response to COVID-19

Boy receiving soap from a woman.

The global spread of the coronavirus has prompted the WASH sector to rethink some of its strategies to support governments in achieving SDG 6. This Global Handwashing Day, SNV joins the WASH sector call to action for the world’s leaders and development actors to enlarge the narrative of handwashing with soap or hand hygiene, and the scope of COVID-19 responses. That is, to prioritise water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in the defence against COVID-19.

Simply put, if there is no continuous water supply and soap – one cannot protect oneself from disease transmission. If toilets are not accessible for certain groups, or are poorly maintained – disease transmission is imminent. Everything is connected. Everyone is affected.

Around the world, SNV teams are working hard with government and non-government partners to disseminate safety and preventative measures, while ensuring that actions are in line with principles of sustainability and inclusiveness. View presentation to learn more.