Arab Women Network for Water and Sanitation Launched, Empowering Women in the Region!

In a landmark development for gender equality and sustainable water management, the Arab Women Network for Water and Sanitation (AWNWS) was officially launched on the 16th of August 2023. The initiative, supported by regional and international organizations, aims to empower women in the Arab region to actively participate in decision-making processes related to water and sanitation.

The network, comprising a diverse group of professionals, advocates, and community leaders, seeks to address the existing gender disparities in the water and sanitation sector. By providing a platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and networking, the AWNWS aims to amplify the voices of Arab women and promote their meaningful involvement in policy formulation and project implementation.

Recognizing the crucial role women play in water management and sanitation, the network will focus on enhancing women's leadership skills, promoting equal access to resources, and fostering innovation in the sector. It will also advocate for gender-responsive policies and practices to ensure sustainable and inclusive water and sanitation services in the Arab region.

During the launch event, prominent speakers emphasized the significance of the AWNWS in advancing gender equality and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this included an intervention done by FAO highlighting the role of the Inter-regional technical Platform on Water Scarcity (iRTP-WS) in harnessing the potential of women to address the region's water challenges and build resilient communities through facilitating partnerships, promoting research and knowledge sharing, and providing technical support to initiatives that promote women's empowerment and sustainable water management.

The AWNWS and the iRTP-WS are expected to collaborate with governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector to advance the network objectives.

 As the Arab Women Network for Water and Sanitation embarks on its journey, it holds the promise of transforming the water and sanitation landscape in the Arab region. By empowering women and ensuring their active participation, the network aims to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.