DILI, 27 november 2023 (TATOLI) – Association HAK (Association for Law, Human Rights and Justice) called on the Government to make serious investments in water and sanitation which is essential for economic growth, human health, and the environment.
According to HAK, many communities in the country still have no access to water, which puts the lives of many children at risk.
HAK said that, so far, the government has not made any serious investments to improve water and sanitation in the country.
According to HAK’s survey in six municipalities (Baucau, Viqueque, Aileu, Ainaro, Dili, and Ermera), communities still have to walk long distances to fetch water for cooking, drinking, cleaning bathing, etc.
“The government has not invested adequately in basic infrastructure to improve access to water and sanitation services in the country,” said in a statement.
HAK recommended that the government must invest seriously in water and sanitation to fulfill its promise not to delay addressing the water and sanitation problem in the county.
HAK called on the National Parliament’s Committee E to discuss with the Ministry of Public Works and the relevant entities the allocation of the 2024 State Budget to the Water and Sanitation program.
The government must optimize its monitoring of communities’ access to water, both in urban and rural areas, HAK said: “The government needs to create an integrated water resource management policy to ensure the sustainable use of water in the country.”
HAK also urged the government to provide good quality water to urban and rural communities in order to prevent communities from harmful diseases.
Journalist: Camilo de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
