Jamila Omowunmi Mohammed Audu

Flowing Forward: How the World is Accelerating Change to Solve the Water and Sanitation Crisis on World Water Day 2023 Around the world, over two billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and four billion people lack access to safe sanitation facilities. The consequences of this crisis are serious, with millions of people falling sick each year due to water-borne diseases. It's easy to take access to clean water and sanitation for granted, but for over two billion people around the world, it's a daily struggle. Lack of infrastructure, education, and financing are just a few of the challenges that make accessing clean water and sanitation a difficult task especially in rural areas. From investing in sustainable infrastructure to raising awareness about the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices, there are many steps that we can take to create lasting change. There is a need to invest in infrastructure and technology to provide sustainable and reliable water and sanitation systems. This includes building wells, boreholes, and water pumps, as well as providing training and support to maintain these systems. Governments, NGOs, and private companies can all play a role in providing these services. Another challenge is the lack of awareness about the importance of clean water and sanitation practices. Many people do not understand the risks associated with using contaminated water or the importance of handwashing and hygiene. Education and awareness-raising campaigns can help to address this issue, particularly among children who are often the most vulnerable to water-borne diseases. Community involvement is also essential to creating sustainable solutions that address the unique needs of each region. By empowering communities to take ownership of these projects, we can create a sense of pride and commitment that leads to long-term success. In conclusion, the water and sanitation crisis is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to address. By investing in infrastructure, education, community involvement, and financing, we can accelerate the change towards sustainable water and sanitation solutions. On this World Water Day 2023, let us remember the importance of clean water and sanitation for a healthy and sustainable future for all.