Water services and HIV / AIDS : integrating health and hygiene education in the water and sanitation sector in the context of HIV / AIDS

The impact of HIV/AIDS on the lives of many South Africans is severe; it is imperative that the water services sector formulates and implements an appropriate response as a matter of urgency. Issues around HIV/AIDS have to be mainstreamed, in terms of prevention as well as in reducing the impact on people living with AIDS.

Careful consideration of the implications of HIV/AIDS for water services policy, planning, regulation, delivery and provision, together with effective hygiene and health education, will contribute to integrated water and environmental health services that address the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS, and reduce the impact of the disease. This study identifies the major areas for improvement in the sector, as well as for collaboration within and beyond the sector, particularly, partnerships with agencies and role-players involved in the HIV/AIDS sector. It presents models of institutional and financial arrangements and a wide range of recommendations towards effective implementation of project-based health and hygiene education.

Municipalities have a responsibility, but also an opportunity to play a central role in promoting health, well-being and economic and social growth through their infrastructure development work. Effective delivery of integrated water, sanitation and hygiene education has a significant impact on the lives of people with HIV/AIDS. This study, through its findings and recommendations, promotes greater commitment within municipalities to implement effective health and hygiene education, and the strategies outlined in the report will assist municipalities to put effective institutional arrangements in place.