Making the Links: Mapping the Relationship between Water, Hygiene and Sanitation, and HIV/AIDS: A Joint Think-Piece by WaterAid Ethiopia and Progynist

• Source:

• WaterAid. 2009. London, UK.

• URL:

• http://www.wateraid.org/documents/makinglinks_1.pdf

• Countries:

• Ethiopia

• Summary:

• Ethiopia, one of the poorest countries in the world, already facing numerous obstacles to overcoming this poverty, has in the last twenty years seen HIV/AIDS emerge as a huge threat to people’s lives, and a significant barrier to development. While everyone is vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, the people worst affected are those living in poor, overcrowded areas that lack adequate sanitary facilities, water supply, and medical care – and where family nutrition levels are low. This paper aims to focus on the links between hygiene, sanitation, and HIV/AIDS. Having a potable water supply and latrine close to one’s home is a basic human right that enables people to live healthier lives, free from the risks of water and sanitation-related illnesses; for a person living with HIV/AIDS access to water and sanitation facilities is especially critical, as the risks posed by poor facilities can be fatal for someone who has contracted the virus.