Considering the need
for concentrated effort in the WASH sector, NEWAH has been advocating for
sustainable policies and programs and its due prioritization. As a member of
the National Sector Stakeholders Group and National Sanitation Steering
Committee it is playing meaningful roles in the development and transformation
of the WASH sector in the country.
NEWAH’s advocacy
efforts have been crucial to influence the National Rural Water Supply and
Sanitation policy of 2004 in incorporating the Gender and Poverty (GAP)
approach. The approach promotes equitable distribution of WASH services and
seeks meaningful participation of poor, women, and the disadvantaged in
WASH-related decision-making.
NEWAH is also playing
an important role in correcting the procedural or practical barriers in
government policies and programs by taking up the matters at the policy-making
level and drawing the attention of stakeholders and the public.
NEWAH’s effort to
develop an umbrella organization to protect and promote the rights of users
throughout the country took headway through the formation of the Federation of
Drinking Water and Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN). The federation today is
established and operates as an autonomous body to inform, organize, and empower
the users and advocate for accessibility and sustainability of services.