Unlocking Growth Through Sanitation Investment
Sanitation is more than a public health concern—it is a key to economic transformation. Across Africa, evidence shows that every single dollar invested in sanitation can yield up to seven dollars in returns. These gains come in the form of stronger health systems, improved workforce productivity, and expanded economic opportunities.
Poor sanitation carries a heavy price: rising healthcare costs, absenteeism at work, and interruptions in children’s education. By contrast, ensuring access to safe and reliable sanitation keeps communities healthier. When people are not sidelined by preventable diseases, they can remain active in the workforce, households save on medical expenses, and students can attend school without frequent health-related breaks.
With adequate funding and robust systems, sanitation initiatives could increase Africa’s GDP by as much as 5%. This growth potential is tied to job creation, reduced health risks, and greater resilience to future crises.
Investing in sanitation should be seen as an economic strategy rather than an expense. By building modern and sustainable sanitation infrastructure, governments and partners have the chance to fuel healthier societies, generate employment, and set the stage for long-term prosperity.
