This Sierra Leone WASH data portal is a joint initiative led by the Ministry of Water Resources Sierra Leone that shows the results of five survey instruments covering households, schools, health facilities, latrine service providers and sanitation retailers. This data portal shares data on a selection of the indicators agreed for SDG goal 6, ‘Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all’. Specifically, these are:

6.1 By 2030, achieve universal access to safe and affordable drinking water for all 6.1.1 Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services (on premises, available when needed and free from contamination)

6.2 By 2030, achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations

6.2.1 Proportion of population using safely managed sanitation services, including a hand washing facility with soap and water

The purpose for the engagement between the various partners was to conduct a WASH Baseline, Water point mapping update. In 2016 the Government of Sierra Leone completed a WASH mapping of water points across the country. This provided useful data on the functionality of water points. The WPM data provides an important foundation for water sector planning and strategy development.

This WASH Baseline study was designed to establish the existing situation regarding access to water supply and sanitation for households and institutions in Sierra Leone as the starting point for the internationally agreed Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The progress on WASH will be measured compared to this baseline over the next 15 years based on the definition of indicators developed for the WASH SDGs. The baseline and subsequent monitoring of progress will contribute substantially to improved sector planning towards achieving the Sierra Leone Poverty Reduction Strategy – Agenda for Prosperity.