Conclusion

The Future of Sanitation

Until now, I have solely focused on the human influences on levels of water availability and how economic water scarcity can be a principal cause of poor sanitation. I would like to conclude my blogs by outlining the future of these sanitation issues in relation to climate change.Growing freshwater demand coupled with high intrinsic fluctuation of water resources and increased extreme weather events across Africa result in an uncertain future, this evokes questions pertaining to the longevity of localised sanitation systems and infrastructure. The impact of intensive rainfall on urban groundwater quality and will require measured strategies to prevent any transmission of pathogens, predominantly faecal to oral. In regard to low-cost, on-site water and sanitation systems often found in informal settlements, there is great shared-use of the subsurface meaning that risk of groundwater contamination from runoff, infiltration, and spill over is high.  Increased flooding events pose threats to existing systems and whilst future climatic predictions are not certain, evidence suggests the need to be more resilient if they are to withstand these extreme weather events. Of the seven sanitation systems that they evaluate, Koottatep et al identify the waterless system with urine diversion as 'best-suited for areas prone to flood events. Whereas the waterless system with alternating pits, the pour flush system with twin pits and the centralised systems are highly vulnerable' (2014, 493) - plainly, the cheapest and simplest systems have the most practical limitations in the face of climate change and population growth.

Final Remarks

"   "Among your characters you must always include The Starving African, who wanders the refugee camp nearly naked, and waits for the benevolence of the West" - In his satirical article 'How to Write about Africa', Wanaiana (2006) brings to light the common narratives and assumptions surrounding Africa. Often in literature, the disparities found between regions in Africa are omitted and discourses seem to be entrenched in weakness and corruption. Triggered by my read of this striking essay, I wanted to present accurate accounts of the areas discussed, based on fact and not preconception, unlike many blogs. Throughout my entries I have tried to dispel the sweeping notions that prevail on water-borne diseases which often perpetuate false knowledge about sanitation issues and instead, to show how regions can and are moving past these problems.

      In sum,  intensified climate variability is an additional and pertinent obstacle to include in discussions and will have significant implications for the Sanitation Crisis. I hope that in writing about gender issues, toilets as development tools, political aspects, actors and solutions, the causes, and the economics behind water and sanitation over the last 3 months, I have produced a series of blogs that provoke thought but also provide clarity on the topics brought to light. 

Thank you for reading!