WASH’ Nutrition

WASH, nutrition and health responsibility and accountability matrix (http://educationcluster.net/intercluster-topics/evaluatingpractice/)
defines the responsibilities and accountabilities of each cluster during emergency response in areas of potential
overlap, especially as they relate to the prevention and control of infectious diseases. The matrix has been developed through
a broad consultative process, but can be revised as necessary at field level, following consideration of the specific contexts and
available resources. It should be used as a starting point to negotiate specific responsibilities and improve coordination and
collaboration among health, nutrition and WASH field staff during emergency operations. Note that capacities across health,
WASH and nutrition sectors may vary depending on the context and therefore responsibilities for each activity could also vary
– what is important is that there is clarity of responsibilities and coordination for all activities.
6. Ensuring A WASH minimum package
PILLAR
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Jana Asenbrenerova © ACF-DRC
The fifth pillar of WASH’Nutrition strategy calls for “ensuring and reinforcing the principle of WASH minimum package both in
health & nutrition centres and at the household level in the communities affected by undernutrition”. The WASH minimum package
should not be confused with “WASH kit”, which usually contains different water treatment and hygiene items such as Aquatabs
and soap, and is deployed un emergency contexts. This section provides a detailed explanation of what a WASH minimum
package is together with a set of recommendations on how to implement it in practice. Adherence of the targeted population
to the Wash minimum package should be closely monitored.
6.1. WASH minimum package for households
Table 8 presents a set of responses needed to ensure that mother/caretakers and (malnourished) children have a reliable
access to safe water in sufficient quantities, adequate sanitation facilities and can practice good hygiene at home. Note that
the content of the WASH minimum package should be adapted to specific in-country situations as well as social and cultural
norms. Items available at the local market should be prioritized in order to ensure sustainability.
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WASH’Nutrition
A practical guidebook