WSUP has identified five myths which are stopping investors, agencies and policymakers from properly addressing the inadequate access to essential water and sanitation services in cities across Africa and South Asia.
Myth one: Struggling utilities are unable to serve the poorest
The reality: Much-maligned, publicly owned utilities can deliver services for the poorest communities.
Myth two: Water should be free
The reality: Water is a human right, but people should still pay for it. Even the poorest.
Myth three: Communities should be responsible for their own services
The reality: Community ownership can result in poor services. We should be aiming for community buy-in instead.
Myth four: We should only focus on household facilities
The reality: Community sanitation facilities can help bridge the gap when household facilities are not viable.
Myth five: Building toilets alone will solve the sanitation crisis
The reality: Solving the waste management conundrum is bigger than just building toilets.
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