The Pan-African Association of Sanitation Actors (PASA) has called on media practitioners across Africa to play a critical role in sensitising leaders and citizens about the urgent need to prioritise sanitation and hygiene on the continent.
The association made this appeal during a virtual media briefing with African journalists over the weekend, emphasising that inadequate sanitation remains a major public health and environmental challenge.
In his opening remarks, PASA president, Mr. Ibra Sow expressed deep concern over the increasing prevalence of open defecation, which currently affects over 200 million people across Africa.
“We urge the media to focus on sanitation issues, as they are essential for creating a healthy environment and ensuring access to proper services for all citizens,” Sow stated. “The management of faecal sludge, including collection, transportation and treatment, must be taken seriously. Open defecation is still on the rise and this must be addressed urgently.”
As part of efforts to improve sanitation infrastructure, PASA executive secretary, Mr. Kitch Bawa presented the 1 City – 1 Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) Initiative.
According to Bawa, the initiative aims to strengthen Africa’s sanitation value chain by establishing a structured support system for faecal sludge management in all African cities by 2030.
“The initiative will be officially launched in Kampala, Uganda, during the Mayor’s and Local Authorities Forum at the African Water and Sanitation Association (AFWASA) Congress on February 18, 2025,” he announced.
He also stressed the urgency of reducing open defecation, citing alarming statistics while emphasizing the need for sanitation facilities that can withstand climate change challenges.
Bawa highlighted PASA’s ongoing efforts, noting that the association, founded in 2019, serves as an umbrella body for national associations of non-sewered sanitation actors in 25 African countries.
“As a leading professional association in the sanitation sector, PASA is committed to improving public health and the overall well-being of African communities,” he said. “We are calling on the media to help raise awareness and push sanitation to the forefront of Africa’s development agenda.”
Also speaking at the briefing, AFWASA’s director of programmes, Dr. Simeon Kenfack emphasised the need for stronger sanitation policies and oversight.
Kenfack noted that AFWASA is actively working with multiple countries to enhance their sanitation services, citing Senegal as a model example.
“AFWASA is currently mentoring five other nations to adopt Senegal’s successful sanitation strategies,” he revealed. “The media plays a vital role in shaping public policy and influencing behaviour, making them crucial partners in sanitation advocacy.”
He assured journalists of AFWASA’s willingness to collaborate with them in amplifying sanitation campaigns and improving sanitation outcomes across Africa.
