Innovative approaches, practices and technologies for affordable water supply, and sanitation services

The provision of affordable sustainable water supply and sanitation is critical for building resilient communities, particularly in the face of growing challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and water scarcity. Access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services is essential for human health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. However, many communities worldwide continue to struggle with inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure, compromising their well-being and resilience. For adequate sustainable water supply and sanitation to be achieved, substantial investments are required. It is important for countries in eastern and southern Africa to come up with innovative financing mechanisms for this sector. Therefore, research, policy and development to showcase innovative solutions, and practices that promote sustainable water supply and sanitation for community resilience are being invited. There is need for initiatives that address the technical, social, economic, and environmental dimensions of water and sanitation management, including decentralized systems, water conservation, wastewater treatment, and sanitation technologies are welcome. Eastern and southern Africa also require more focus on policy and governance frameworks, community engagement and participation, and financing mechanisms that support sustainable water and sanitation service provision. Through sharing of knowledge and experiences during the 26^th Symposium, the aim is to identify effective strategies for enhancing community resilience through sustainable water supply and sanitation. 

Papers for this sub-theme may address any of the topics listed below of those closely related to them:

• Exploring decentralized and low-energy water treatment methods.
• Advances in water reuse and recycling to ensure reliable supply.
• Best practices for involving local communities in water supply and sanitation decision-making.
• Empowering residents to enhance resilience through grassroots initiatives in water supply and sanitation service provision.
• Strategies to design water and sanitation systems that can withstand extreme weather events.
• Integrating climate risk assessments into water and sanitation infrastructure planning and policy development.
• Developing policies that bridge water management, public health, and urban planning.
• Exploring public-private partnerships and sustainable financing models for resilient systems.
• Assessing how improved sanitation contributes to community health and productivity.
• Evaluating the socioeconomic benefits of sustainable water supply in urban and rural settings.
• Financing mechanisms for water supply and sanitation systems.