Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa: A Rights-Based Push for Urgent Action in Lesotho

Yesterday evening, World Vision International joined forces with the Government of Lesotho, the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), and UNICEF Lesotho to host a high-level side event focused on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for every child in Africa. The discussion centered on the theme “Advancing WASH through the Principles of Child Rights” and highlighted how access to clean water and safe sanitation is not only a development goal but a fundamental human right for every child. The event brought together key decision makers, development partners, and child rights advocates who examined persistent gaps in WASH services across communities. It also reinforced the urgent need to treat water and sanitation challenges as a child protection issue. Participants stressed that millions of children still face unsafe living conditions due to inadequate infrastructure.

The discussions explored the real impact of poor WASH services on children’s health, education, and dignity. Speakers pointed out that unsafe water sources contribute to disease outbreaks that affect school attendance and child development. Lack of proper sanitation in schools continues to discourage attendance, especially among girls, which increases inequality over time. The event emphasized that progress requires more than infrastructure alone, it demands coordinated policy action and sustained investment. Strong partnerships between governments, international organizations, and local communities were identified as essential for long term impact. The collaboration between World Vision International, the Government of Lesotho, ACERWC, and UNICEF Lesotho was highlighted as a model for regional cooperation.

A powerful moment during the event came from a child representative who spoke directly about the daily realities faced by children without reliable access to clean water and sanitation. The child called for fair and equal access to WASH services for every child across Africa, stressing that no child should be left behind due to geography or economic status. This contribution reinforced the importance of including children in decision making processes that affect their lives. Participants agreed that children’s voices bring clarity and urgency to policy discussions. The event also reinforced that child participation is not optional but necessary for building effective and sustainable solutions. Attention was drawn to the need for inclusive systems that actively reflect the needs of vulnerable communities.

The overall discussions made it clear that WASH is a central pillar of child rights and human dignity. Stakeholders emphasized that governments must increase investment in water and sanitation systems, particularly in underserved rural and peri-urban areas. There was also a strong call for accountability mechanisms that ensure commitments are translated into real improvements on the ground. The event concluded with a shared understanding that collaboration must continue beyond dialogue and into measurable action. Ensuring every child has access to safe water and sanitation was positioned as both an urgent responsibility and a long term development priority.