KATHMANDU: Minister for Water Supply Pradeep Yadav emphasized the vital role of women in the drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector, acknowledging the challenges they face in leadership positions within drinking water and sanitation user organizations.
Speaking at an interaction organized by the Federation of Drinking Water and Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN), Minister Yadav highlighted the significant impact of women’s leadership in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the WASH sector.
“Drinking water and sanitation are not only basic needs but are also closely tied to the health, prosperity, and development of society as a whole. Women’s role in managing water, sanitation, and ensuring health security at the household level is crucial,” he said.
While recognizing that women are capable of excelling in any field, Yadav pointed out that their representation in leadership roles within consumer organizations is still limited.
“Women’s effective participation in policy-making and implementation remains a challenge,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing legal provisions that ensure women’s active participation in consumer organizations.
He outlined plans to implement mandatory representation of women in WASH-related organizations and introduce special quotas, capacity-building programs, and financial support to empower women in leadership roles.
Yadav also called for community involvement in the sustainable management of water resources, urging consumers to avoid water misuse, conserve sources, and adopt proper sanitation practices. He appreciated the efforts of FEDWASUN in promoting women’s leadership and emphasized the government’s priority to support these initiatives.
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