Empowering Pacific Communities: A Decade of WASH Success
In the Pacific Islands, poor water quality and limited access to proper sanitation facilities pose serious health risks, straining public resources and human capital. Addressing these challenges, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and UNICEF have been at the forefront of transformative Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programmes over the past decade.
MFAT's Contribution
MFAT has long prioritised WASH in its development assistance initiatives for countries like Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu. By engaging Kirsty Burnett and a team of multidisciplinary experts, UNICEF has concept notes and funding proposals to secure MFAT funding and enable detailed programme design work. This approach, involving government, private sector, and civil society stakeholders, has encouraged other development partners to adopt and expand on MFAT's efforts, significantly amplifying the reach and effectiveness of WASH interventions.
UNICEF's Role
UNICEF Pacific has integrated WASH as a core component of its multi-country strategy, focusing on schools, communities, and healthcare facilities. Since 2014, Kirsty Burnett has been instrumental in securing approximately NZD20 million from MFAT’s Partnership Fund for WASH in Schools programmes in Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, and subsequently over NZD15million from MFAT Negotiated Partnerships Fund. Her approach of engaging with government agencies and local communities has been crucial in tailoring programmes to meet specific needs and ensuring a sustainable impact.
Key Achievements
Kirsty’s efforts have led to widespread improvements in WASH infrastructure and practices. At the community level, this translates to cleaner schools with adequate hand-washing and toilet facilities, and active involvement from locals in maintenance efforts. On a national scale, her work has facilitated collaboration among ministries, integrating WASH issues into school curricula and ensuring long-term sustainability through coordinated efforts.
Expert Insights
“Kirsty doesn’t claim to have all the answers but assembles the right team of experts and streamlines the necessary information for concept proposals. She embraces challenges and focuses on getting it right from the start, clarifying technical issues and aligning community and government needs.”
Dr Jan Gregor, former Science Leader at ESR and collaborator with Kirsty in Kiribati and Vanuatu
This initiative highlights the critical role of international development in improving health and sanitation in the Pacific Islands, with MFAT and UNICEF leading the way through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
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