Water supply

Since in developing countries the responsibility for water transport and the operation and maintenance of traditional water supply systems lies almost entirely with women, water is a women's issue. Collecting the daily water needs can take a quarter of a woman's working day and more than a quarter of her daily food intake, but this workload could be lessened with better tools and techniques. Traditionally however, women in developing countries have not had access to water supply technologies and their management. To meet the need to improve women's access to information and training so that they can make informed choices, the United Nations Development Fund for Women has taken the initiative to produce a series of source books on energy and the environment which are specifically relevant to women. This book, one of the series, seeks to promote an understanding of water supply technologies, water supply management and the project cycle. It gives readers information on various water supply technologies, on how to assess the suitability of different water supply options, and on how to find financial and technical assistance. Also provided is information on the social aspects of water supply, the gender issue, and the positive role that women can play in better water management. The case studies included are representative of the gender and water situation in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. A list of contacts and a guide to available resources complete this book which is useful to technical and non-technical project managers, project staff, extension officers, trainers, consultants concerned with women in development and women's organizations.