The Kano State Ministry of Youth and Sports today engaged with the WASH System for Health (WS4H) project alongside the NEWSAN team as part of efforts to address pressing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) challenges in Makoda Local Government Area.
The engagement follows findings from an assessment conducted by the University of Bristol, which revealed severe seasonal water access constraints and low sanitation coverage in schools and public institutions—conditions that fall below the standards outlined in WASHNORM 2021.
During the visit, discussions centered on mobilizing youth—including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and marginalized groups—to drive inclusive, climate-resilient WASH solutions across Makoda.
The proposed collaboration will focus on:
Inclusive Youth Entrepreneurship: Training young people and PWDs as sanitation entrepreneurs to construct accessible facilities and manage safe waste systems.
Climate-Responsive Advocacy: Deploying youth volunteers to protect and maintain community water points.
Sports for Dignity: Promoting WASH-friendly sports centers with accessible sanitation infrastructure.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to youth-driven development and inclusive service delivery, emphasizing that access to clean water and sanitation is central to dignity, health, and sustainable community growth.
A stakeholder roundtable in Makoda is expected to follow, bringing together community leaders, youth groups, women representatives, and WASH actors to ensure inclusive implementation.
