Gambia

2020 Voluntary National Review

Gambia reported minor progress in the proportion of households that have access to an improved water source from 85.8 in 2010, 89.8% in 2013, and 90.4% in 2018. The country noted to face some challenges as their high population growth continues to weaken the ability of water and sanitation services. They further highlighted poor maintenance culture of water systems, and multiple issues with improving sanitation facilities. Gambia stated that this is a big challenge considering toilet facilities are shared in most communities and most of the time there is no handwashing facility and where it is present, both soap and water might not be available at the facility. The country emphasized therefore a need for health education to urge the population on the provision of handwashing facilities with soap and water in their sanitary facilities. 

Gambia further reported to have outlined in their national development plan a focus on improving access to safe drinking water, affordable sanitation, and good hygiene practices at all levels. Key measures and interventions are being taken to ensure equitable access to safe and affordable water, sanitation, and hygiene promotion to communities across the country. They reported that the government is also working to improve community structures for effective maintenance and sustainable management of water resources and sanitation facilities using an Integrated Water Resource Management approach. Gambia further informed of their initiatives to strengthen a Social Behavioral Change Communication approach for sanitation and hygiene promotion at all levels. 

Read the full report here: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/263072020GambiaVNR.pdf 

*The information reflected on this page has been taken directly from the official VNR received from this Member State. The information does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations.