Sanitation and Wastewater Atlas of Africa - Policy and Institutional Frameworks
The environmental, health and economic benefits of
safe drinking water and sanitation in Africa are clear
and well documented. Unpolluted ecosystems are
better able to deliver their much-needed services
of providing freshwater, food and genetic resources;
regulating climate and natural hazards; providing a
habitat for various species; and providing spiritual
enrichment, recreation and aesthetic values. The
availability of clean water and basic toilets, coupled
with good hygiene practices, drastically reduces
mortality rates in children under the age of five, who
are at high risk of death from diarrhoeal diseases
resulting from poor sanitation, poor hygiene
practices or unsafe drinking water. Improved health
in both children and adults translates to reduced
direct and indirect health costs, which in turn
reduces the financial burden on health.
Year: 2021