Exploring Critical Linkages: Water, Sanitation and Hygiene to Enhance Food Security and Nutrition

Presented by: Ron Clemmer, Senior Technical Advisor – Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, International Programs Group, World Vision;  Christopher Seremet, Technical Advisor – Water Supply and Sanitation, Catholic Relief Services

Poor nutrition, which can lead to child stunting, cannot be prevented unless the health issues related to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) problems are addressed.  Chronic WASH-related health issues such as diarrheal diseases and parasitic infections, for example, schistosomiasis and hookworm, are estimated to be responsible for 50% of underweight children.  In many places around the world, malnutrition problems cannot be fully addressed unless WASH issues are also addressed.

Addressing WASH also enhances food security and nutrition. The time savings from having a more convenient water source and fewer family illnesses allows for more time for better care of the household or food production. Multiple water use services addresses both domestic and food production water uses. Soil and water conservation improves both agriculture potential and the availability of water resources for WASH use. Participants explored these connections of WASH and nutrition/food security further.