WASHNet, in collaboration with the WatSan Cell, commemorated World Water Day by organizing an event under the theme “Water and Gender – Where Water Flows, Equality Grows” at the Local Governance School. The event brought together key stakeholders from government, development partners, and civil society to highlight the critical link between water access, gender equality, and community well-being. The event was organized with the support of UNICEF in collaboration with the Local Government Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and was attended by a delegation from UNICEF Peshawar.
The Honourable Chief Guest, Shafi Ullah Jan, emphasized that while water security remains a major challenge, equal importance must be given to ensuring safe drinking water and proper sanitation systems. He highlighted that sustainable water management cannot be achieved without strengthening sanitation practices.
A key session was led by Ms. Amina Durrani from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women, who spoke on “How Water Access Impacts Girls’ Education and Community Well-Being.” She underscored that limited access to clean water disproportionately affects women and girls, restricting educational opportunities and impacting overall community health.
In the closing remarks, Dr. Wassaf Syed (UNICEF) stressed the need for developing comprehensive drinking water and sanitation policies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to address existing gaps and ensure equitable access to essential services.
The event served as a vital platform for dialogue, awareness, and collaboration, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing water security, gender equality, and improved sanitation across the province.