WHO & UNICEF: 2.1 billion people lack safe water at home

“Some 3 in 10 people worldwide, or 2.1 billion, lack access to safe, readily available water at home” according to a new report issued on July 2017 by WHO and UNICEF. The report confirms the alarming magnitude of the challenge: 2.1 billion include not only the 800 million without access to any improved water source (therefore fetching water from unprotected rivers and boreholes and often consuming it untreated), but also those having access to improved sources that remain unsafe.

Moreover, the report stresses the importance of enabling access to safe water at home to reduce contamination risk, especially for children: “Billions of people have gained access to basic drinking water and sanitation services since 2000, but these services do not necessarily provide safe water and sanitation. Many homes, healthcare facilities and schools also still lack soap and water for handwashing. This puts the health of all people – but especially young children – at risk for diseases, such as diarrhoea”.
 
“Safe water, sanitation and hygiene at home should not be a privilege only for those who are rich or live in urban centers” says WHO Director-General’s to explain one of the most important aspects of the report  Progress on drinking water, sanitation and hygiene: 2017 update and Sustainable Development Goal baselines first global assessment. “Building a stronger, healthier, and more equitable development starts from the essentials of safe water, effective sanitation and hygiene made accessible to every child and every community” states UNICEF Executive Director.
 
This is the vision REN4WATER is working for: “Safe water in every home”.
 
Read more about the new report by WHO/UNICEF.

Marco, the Visionary