Dear all,

I am glad to share with you the synthesis paper of the Thematic Discussion on WASH & Nutrition that took place last April.



Best,
Jona

Thanks for all the contributions so far. Further examples of integration, experiences and ideas of improvements can be presented.

Especially input regarding policy-making and incentives are most welcome.

If you have any projects, publications or events planned for which your are looking for partners, please also use the Collaboration Opportunities section.

Best,
Jona

Linking water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) and nutrition has globally gained momentum. National policies and development partners’ strategies in numerous countries already acknowledge the importance of adequate WASH conditions for achieving good nutritional status and call for WASH interventions to be scaled up along with nutrition actions. Beyond that, organisations campaign internationally for better sector collaboration. Why?
The Bonn WASH Nutrition Forum 2015 has given the dynamic yet another push. Initiated by the German WASH Network, academic institutions, government representatives, members of international networks such as Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) and Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) and a variety of NGOs from both sectors engaged in discussions during “mirror sessions”, presentations and networking in order to identify better sector collaboration. Among others, outcomes of the conference include:

• Research & Knowledge Management: Enough evidence about the link between WASH and nutrition available in order to take action; improve accessibility of research findings to policy makers, practitioners and advocacy groups cross-sectorally
• Governments & Policy Makers: Common Objective “Health” – An integrated approach in programming, implementation, evaluation and financing instead of competing for resources; SDGs can serve as “umbrella” framework for integration
• Practitioners: Improving knowledge about existing institutions and projects in order to facilitate collaboration on the ground; behaviour change playing a significant part in both sectors; common delivery platforms can be e.g. schools, health facilities, communities with poor WASH conditions and high under-nutrition rates, etc.

Building on ideas of the Bonn WASH Nutrition Forum, this thematic discussion aims at continuing the dialog between the WASH sector and nutritionists. Over the course of two weeks, professionals from Action Contre La Faim (ACF), CARE, the German Toilet Organisation (GTO) and WaterAid will provide expertise for several of the complex facets at the sectoral interface. Weekly summaries of discussions will be posted on the SuSanA forum as well as a synthesis report of overarching findings at the end. To write a post - asking questions, commenting and for sharing your own experiences - please quickly register for SuSanA, if you are not already a member. The SuSanA secretariat and I will be glad to assist you in case you have any questions.

Looking much forward to your contribution and a fruitful exchange!

Best regards,
Jona
TDS Coordinator “WASH & Nutrition“