In Nairobi’s informal settlements nearly two out of three people do not have access to adequate water at home. This creates challenges for the physical distancing measures needed to suppress the spread of COVID-19 as people have to leave home to collect water. Globally, 2.2 billion people lack access to safe water at home, complicating the fight against COVID-19 in low- and middle-income countries. Increased handwashing is not possible without access to water. Governments and utilities face challenges in extending access to the poorest and opening up new water sources, particularly in areas already experiencing water scarcity or stress.
Read the full blog on the Institute of Development Studies’ website.