WASH
Athena Infonomics' Heston Jackson Co-authors PSI Article on Liberia's Sanitation Revolution
AUTHOR:
Shivangi Dey

Athena Infonomics’ former Learning and Communications Manager, Heston Jackson, and Population Services International/Ethiopia's Mekdim Hailu have co-authored an insightful study addressing the persistent challenge of low sanitation coverage in Liberia. The article specifically focuses on the prevalence of open defecation (OD) and its detrimental impact on public health, particularly among children under five.

Spotlighting the USAID-backed Countywide Sanitation Activity (CWSA) in Liberia, the article outlines a transformative project designed to eliminate OD through market-based sanitation approaches, behavior change communication initiatives, and the fortification of local institutions.

The CWSA has set ambitious targets, including providing basic sanitation access to 1.4 million individuals in rural areas and supporting 300 businesses to sell over 100,000 toilets in specific counties. This concerted effort addresses gaps and challenges through a problem-led approach, actively contributing to enhancing living conditions and fostering a healthier environment in Liberia. For a comprehensive understanding of this impactful initiative and the positive changes it brings, we invite you to read the full article here.