Sanjeev Mansotra - Improving Access to Water and Sanitation is What Africa Needs
Sanjeev Mansotra’s has been tirelessly working towards the betterment of the African people and have worked towards the aspects of ensuring water and sanitation and sees these two elements as the most important one that every African must have access to.
Although having access to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental
human right, millions of Africans still do not have these conveniences.
The continent must overcome a formidable obstacle if it wants to
guarantee that its expanding population has access to clean water and
adequate sanitary facilities. Enhancing access to water and sanitation
in Africa is crucial for development, both practically and morally.
Africa is the second-most populous continent in the world, and a sizable number of its people lack access to clean water and sanitary facilities. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF estimate that 695 million people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to basic sanitation facilities, and 319 million people lack access to safe drinking water. For the general quality of life, economic growth, and public health, this catastrophic scenario has serious repercussions. According to Sanjeev Mansotra, the condition of Africa regarding water and sanitation is quite worse and the situation is quite pathetic when it comes to rural areas. He thinks that it is the sole responsibility of the government to ensure water and sanitation hygiene to all of its citizens.
Waterborne illnesses like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid spread more widely when people lack access to clean water and sanitary facilities. Every year, these illnesses cost the lives of countless people, with youngsters being the most susceptible. In addition to causing misery, waterborne infections inflict a heavy load on already overburdened healthcare systems.
The economic development of Africa is also hampered by inadequate access to water and sanitation. People get sick more frequently when there is a lack of clean water, which lowers labor productivity since they miss more work and school. Additionally, the time and energy used to acquire water from far-off sources could be put to better use by engaging in activities that provide cash. Additionally, the cost of treating waterborne illnesses depletes household budgets and feeds the cycle of poverty.
Since they are frequently the ones in charge of gathering water in many African households, women and girls frequently suffer the most from a lack of water. Long and taxing trips to gather water take time away from learning, earning a living, and growing personally. By offering them more chances for education and economic participation, improving access to clean water and sanitation can contribute to the empowerment of women and girls.
A specific goal of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations is to guarantee universal access to water and sanitation by the year 2030. To achieve this, African countries must prioritize spending on water infrastructure, sanitary infrastructure, and hygiene education. Technology transfer, financial assistance, and international cooperation can all significantly speed up development.
"It is essential for Africa's health, economic development, gender equality, and human development to increase access to water and sanitation", believes Sanjeev Mansotra. To provide clean water and sanitation, pull millions out of poverty, lower the burden of disease, and pave the road for a better future, cooperation between governments, organizations, and the global community is crucial.