Background

The motivation for this project was the realisation that there is a national and global disconnect in relation to sector performance monitoring. On the one hand, there are excellent data generating mechanisms within countries (MICS, DHS, Census surveys) and so on. However the rage of stakeholders nationally who should exploit these often do not know of their existence.

On the other hand, at the global level, there is disappointment and frustration that this nationally ratified data quickly becomes the domain of the global body (the JMP) rather than ownership being retained and asserted by local stakeholders.

What is the WSMP's approach?

The platforms have the role of generating and disseminating sector specific data and information. Their role is not just limited to supplying data and information. They also have the role of stimulating demand, challenging the notion that people know what information the need.

To perform these roles, the platforms:

• Track data and information streams relevant to the WASH sector;
• Collect and analyse existing demographic and health data, including data on access to drinking water and sanitation and poverty at national and sub-national levels;
• Compile and update a who-is-who of the rural, urban and peri-urban WASH sector at both national and sub-national levels;
• Compile and update information on sector investments disaggregated by sub-national level, water supply, sanitation and hygiene, and original source of funding;
• Compile and update other country specific and demand responsive products as requested by stakeholders.

How does WSMP communicate?

The platforms employ a wide range of pathways to communicate and disseminate data and information. These include:

• Media articles – the platforms aim to ensure a steady stream of water, sanitation and hygiene articles in newspapers and magazines
• In-house publications – the platforms regularly publish sector relevant findings and information. In this regard, the added-value of the platform publications is the analysis and packaging of the key findings and messages.
• Informal discussion forums – the platforms regularly arrange discussion for a with professional sector association on relevant topics related to the water supply and sanitation sector;
• Workshops and seminars – the platforms organise workshops and seminars from time to time to on a sector relevant topic. Stakeholders are invited to nominate participants to attend the workshop.