9AWW: WASH in climate action – a cornerstone for a climate resilient Africa

Universal provision of water, sanitation and hygiene services should be a firm part of climate action. Without a reliable supply of clean water, safely managed sanitation facilities and good hygiene practices, the very existence of humanity is threatened. One of the goals of the Africa Agenda 2063 is to have climate resilient communities. Reliable and resilient WASH systems and services are the first line of defense against climate impacts. Because of this importance of having access to WASH services, climate policies and plans should have water, sanitation and hygiene firmly represented as part of national adaptation strategies that deliver long-term and crosscutting benefits. National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) are a central instrument for adaptation planning that should provide a comprehensive assessment of a country’s vulnerabilities and develop the required actions needed to build a country's resilience. Similarly, the adaptation component of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) should clearly articulate the country's adaptation needs alongside its mitigation commitments. Underpinning these climate actions should be a clear consideration of gender sensitivities and all-inclusive participation in the development of policies and plans.