sanitation

In rich countries, clean water is so plentiful and easily available that we simply take it for granted. Yet around the world, diseases from unsafe water kill more people each year than any other cause, making this one of the world’s most urgent health issues. Water is central to almost every aspect of Oxfam’s work.

Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe are facing an unprecedented surge of cholera cases, Oxfam warned today. The aid agency says the situation could become uncontrollable and difficult to manage due to a steady increase of COVID-19 cases and the onset of the rainy season, especially as the majority of vulnerable communities have no access to clean water and sanitation facilities - both of which are essential to prevent the spread of cholera. 
 

Oxfam and partners are currently assessing the scale of Cyclone Mocha’s devastation to mount a humanitarian response to provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, as well as emergency cash and food. 

Across Ethiopia’s Tigray, Amhara, and Afar regions, communities already reeling from 18 months of conflict, will be welcoming, but also bracing for the rains that often bring heightened risk of water-borne diseases and hamper humanitarian aid, warns Oxfam today.
 

Faced with the coronavirus pandemic, Oxfam has geared up its entire humanitarian aid delivery system to help the most vulnerable communities. Despite access restrictions, we are working around the clock with our local partners to deliver vital assistance to curb to spread of the virus and help protect people from its economic impact. You can help.

Since June 2013, Oxfam in Syria has been working to address the immediate live-saving and sustainable water and sanitation needs of thousands of crisis-affected women, men, girls and boys. We are providing support in 12 governorates across the country.

Damage to roads, bridges and the airport, is still hampering response efforts in Indonesia, with limited supplies getting through. However, we're working as quickly as we can, delivering hygiene, clean water and shelter materials in Palu and other affected areas. Here are three examples of the vital aid we’re providing to those most in need.

At Oxfam, we are supporting Rohingya women and girls to overcoming the challenges they face such as insecurity and limited abillity to influence decisions in their communities. Discover how our gender-based humanitarian programs are contributing to creating an environment where women and girls are listened to and valued.

Iraq faces severe pressures on its water resources following years of conflict and under-investment in infrastructure. This research focuses on the state of water resources in Kirkuk governorate in the north of the country and identifies the main challenges that need to be addressed.

In South Sudan, nearly 5 million people - 40 percent of the population - are facing extreme hunger. "We are seeing communities now at the breaking point". Read more about the situation and support our humanitarian response.