The Open Defecation Prohibition Bill is another legal framework being developed.
By Nakanda Iyadim
To address the challenges facing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) service delivery, the Cross River State Government has initiated the second review process for the 2011 Water Supply and Sanitation Policy. The Open Defecation Prohibition Bill is another legal framework being developed.
In his welcome address at the second review meeting held at Monty Suit, Calabar, Engr Okon Ita, chairman of the State Task Group on WASH (STG-WASH) and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, disclosed that the obsolete law, which was enacted 14 years ago, needs to be reviewed.
According to him the law has become outdated and is no longer effective in addressing the State’s water, sanitation and hygiene needs.
He said, “You will agree that before we succeed in making Cross River State Open Defecation Free, there must be a deliberate effort to put the enabling policy framework in place for effective and efficient implementation.”
The STG-WASH Chairman added, “That is why we are here with the relevant stakeholders to review existing law, rejig it where necessary and fine-tune it in line with current reality which of course is the broader spectrum, WASH.”
Earlier, in his opening address, the Programmes Manager of WASH System for Health Programme by Self Help Africa (SHA), implementation partner to the State, Mr John Wali, disclosed that the review of the law is aimed at creating a more holistic and comprehensive framework that reflects the current reality.
According to him, the review process is expected to be inclusive, taking into account the views and inputs of various stakeholders to ensure that the new law is effective in addressing the State’s WASH challenges.
He expressed optimism that the review process will lead to the development of a comprehensive and effective WASH policy and urged participants to be diligent and committed to ensuring that the new law is effective in addressing the State’s WASH needs.
The objectives of the 2-day second review meeting include enhancing participants’ understanding of how the updated WASH policy can significantly improve access to sustainable, inclusive and resilient WASH services. To conduct a second review of the Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Policy and Open Defecation Prohibition Bill, ensuring the integration of all stakeholder inputs to align with national directives and international best practices.
And develop a strategic action plan, outlining stakeholder roles, responsibilities and timelines to finalise the WASH Policy and the OD Prohibition Bill.
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