Introduction

WATAN’s WASH sector is guided by strategic pillars aimed at ensuring water safety and addressing essential needs while promoting public hygiene, and mitigating water-borne diseases, through innovative and sustainable methods. Since its establishment in November 2013, the sector has actively provided humanitarian assistance to Syrian crises affected population (host and IDPs), with a focus on rehabilitating water schemes, sewage systems, sanitation, and WASH in health and education facilities in Aleppo and Idlib northern Syria.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Building on WATAN WASH sector’s rich experience, WATAN’s commitment is centered around implementing sustainable interventions that encompass crucial aspects like water safety, renewable energy, primary treatment of raw sewage, and efficient medical waste management.

Sustainable Interventions:

WATAN focus on renewable energy systems from its potential as a sustainable power source, aligning with cost-effectiveness and affected people interests. We recognize its significance in the early recovery sector and phase, driving our efforts to integrate innovative solutions.

Water Safety:

At the core of the WASH program lies a dedication to ensuring water safety, considering it a fundamental necessity for life. Through our interventions, we empower local communities to access safe water and sanitation, intertwining these efforts with broader humanitarian sectors, especially health.

Renewable Energy (Solar Power):

Drawing from eight years of successful interventions, we leverage our expertise in WASH-related areas, including renewable energy-based water station rehabilitation. The integration of solar power not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also contributes to the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of water supply systems.

Raw Sewage Primary Treatment:

We prioritize the primary treatment of raw sewage through the installation of septic tanks. This approach not only addresses sanitation needs but also contributes to environmental health and safety.

Medical Waste Management:

Our commitment extends to the effective management of medical waste through advanced incinerators. By adhering to best practices, we ensure the safe disposal of medical waste, mitigating health risks and environmental impact.

Innovation:

Innovation is embedded in our approach, as evidenced by awareness sessions and hygiene club activities that enhance understanding of personal hygiene, COVID-19, and menstrual hygiene management. Our continuous pursuit of innovative solutions is guided by lessons learned from successful interventions.

Integrated WASH Response:

Our strategy involves an integrated WASH response, promoting sustainable access to water and sanitation facilities through intelligent interventions and improved resource management. By addressing multiple facets of water, sanitation, and hygiene, we strive for comprehensive and lasting impact.

Emergency Response:

In times of crisis, our emergency response is swift and effective. We prioritize the immediate needs of communities, ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities to mitigate water-borne diseases and protect vulnerable groups.

In summary, WATAN’s WASH sector leverages its extensive experience to implement sustainable, innovative, and integrated interventions that encompass water safety, renewable energy, sewage treatment, medical waste management, and emergency response. Our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement drives us to address the diverse needs of communities while promoting health, resilience, and environmental well-being.

SECTOR PHILOSOPHY AND DIFFERENTIATORS

WATAN’s WASH sector responds rapidly to emergencies with a three-step approach, prioritizing capacity building and sustainable infrastructure interventions. The organization cooperates with local authorities to prioritize general hygiene and personal hygiene, addressing recent cholera and COVID-19 epidemics through innovative awareness sessions. WATAN’s differentiators include contextual understanding, extensive access, technical expertise, and locally sourced solutions.

WASH Sector Differentiators

1. Deep understanding of the context,
2. Huge access in the affected area,
3. Technical expertise,
4. Bringing innovative locally sourced solutions,
5. Integrated and coordinated response.