Catherine Russell, Executive Director, UNICEF, talks about SWA Sector Ministers' Meeting 2022

"Safe water and sanitation are critical for children's health and development. Without these basic ingredients, we cannot effectively fight the spread of diseases, nor can we make progress towards a healthier future for every child, especially the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children. Increasingly, we're also seeing how climate-resilient water and sanitation services can help children and communities adapt to climate change-related threats like water scarcity and extreme weather. Equitable access to safe water and sanitation can also be a lever for sustainable growth, helping reduce poverty and contributing to green energy sources and environmental protection. And as we build back better from COVID-19, water and sanitation can be equalizers, helping to ensure that the recovery benefits every child. That is why UNICEF is joining forces with Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) as co-convener of this year’s Sector Ministers’ Meeting to work towards these solutions. I urge all ministers of WASH, health, environment and finance to attend. Together we can help to ensure that every child has a fair chance for a safer, healthier future." - Catherine Russell, Executive Director, UNICEF.

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