Mapping of WASH Sector regulations, policies, strategies and guidelines

Momentum, in collaboration with UNICEF, successfully completed a comprehensive study for the Government of Pakistan, focusing on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. The study aimed to map existing WASH sector regulations, policies, strategies, and guidelines at both federal and provincial levels. Through this rigorous analysis, the project identified critical gaps and challenges within the WASH regulatory framework, which are essential for ensuring safe and sustainable water and sanitation services across the country. This initiative is a significant step toward aligning Pakistan’s WASH sector with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the nation’s commitment to universal access to water and sanitation.

1. Gap Analysis of WASH Sector Laws:
   • Conduct a detailed legislative gap analysis at the federal level and within each province, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan.
   • Summarize the key legislative gaps identified in each region.
2. Gap Analysis of WASH Sector Policies and Strategic Plans:
   • Review and analyze existing WASH policies and strategic plans at the national and provincial levels.
   • Focus on critical areas such as human rights, WASH planning principles, SDG 6 integration, and climate resilience.
   • Develop key findings from the gap analysis and propose strategic actions.
3. Gap Analysis and Action Recommendations for WASH Services:
   • Assess governance structures, service management, and infrastructure challenges within the WASH sector.
   • Identify gaps and propose actionable recommendations to enhance WASH services at both national and provincial levels.
4. Review of WASH Regulation (WASHREG) Gaps and Recommendations:
   • Apply the WASHREG approach to evaluate the regulatory framework and identify scenarios where WASH regulatory functions are missing or inadequate.
   • Develop a strategic framework for WASH regulation, prioritizing actions and mapping relevant stakeholders.

The successful completion of this WASHREG study underscores Momentum’s dedication to improving the WASH sector in Pakistan through strategic partnerships and evidence-based interventions. By identifying and addressing regulatory gaps, this project provides a clear roadmap for enhancing WASH governance, service delivery, and sustainability. The recommendations put forth will guide future efforts to align Pakistan’s WASH sector with international standards, ultimately contributing to the achievement of SDG 6 and the realization of the human right to water and sanitation for all.