and forever and sanitation for all Advocating for water...and sanitation for all and forever WaterAid’s mission is to overcome poverty by enabling the world’s poorest people to

Advocating for waterand sanitation for alland forever

WaterAid’s mission is to overcome poverty byenabling the world’s poorest people to gain accessto safe water, sanitation and hygiene education.

For more information, please contact:For more information, please contact:For more information, please contact:For more information, please contact:For more information, please contact:WaterAid in NepalKupondole, Lalitpur, NepalGPO Box: 20214, Kathmandu, NepalTelephone: + 977 1 5552764 / 5552765 / 5011625Fax: + 977 1 5547420Email: [email protected]

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Federation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andSanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Thapathali, Kathmandu, NepalGPO Box: 19980, Kathmandu, NepalTelephone: + 977 1 4249720Fax: + 977 1 4245739Email: [email protected]

www.iys2008.org.np

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Images: WaterAid/ Marco Betti

WaterAid/Anita Pradhan

Published on

December 2008

Copy of the report can be downloaded from www.wateraid.org/nepal

Photo: Dhading: Citizens'action programme modeldistrict

Table of contents i

Acronyms iii1 Introduction 1

1.1 Background 11.2 Genesis of FEDWASUN 11.3 Vision 21.4 Mission 21.5 Goal 31.6 Objectives 31.7 Working methodology 31.8 Core values 41.9 Governance structure 4

1.9.1 General assembly 51.9.2 National council 51.9.3 National executive committee 51.9.4 Permanent secretariat 71.9.5 District branches 71.9.6 Users' committees 7

1.10 Organisational setup and human resources 81.11 Financial resources 81.12 National coverage and expansion strategy 91.13 Networking, alliances and partnerships 9

1.13.1 Memberships 91.13.2 Partnerships and relationships 11

2 Major Programmes 122.1 Citizens' action programme 12

2.1.1 Overview 122.1.2 Major activities 12

2.2 Users' Empowerment and support programme 152.2.1 Overview 152.2.2 Major activities 15

2.3 Expansion and empowerment of WATSAN users' committee programme 152.3.1 Overview 152.3.2 Major activities 16

2.4 District branches improvement programme 16

Table of contents

Advocating for water and sanitation for all and foreverii

3 Achievements and lessons 173.1 Achievements 17

3.1.1 Enhancing transparency 173.1.2 Accountability and responsiveness 203.1.3 Enhancing equity 223.1.4 Establishing the rule of law 243.1.5 Increasing people's participation 253.1.6 Programme sustainability and effectiveness 27

3.2 Lessons learned 29

4 Future direction 334.1 Challenges 334.2 Opportunities 334.3 Future strategy 34

List of figures

Figure 1: Core values of FEDWASUN 4Figure 2: Organisational structure of FEDWASUN 5Figure 3: Composition of general assembly 5Figure 4: FEDWASUN's functional relationships with government bodies 11Figure 5: Citizens' action cycle 12Figure 6: Federation of Drinking Water and Sanitation Users Nepal Working Districts 13Figure 7: Budget tracking 18Figure 8: FEDWASUN enhancing transparency 19Figure 9: Publication: Aawaj 20Figure 10: FEDWASUN's key documents/publications 20Figure 11: Growing responsiveness of service providers through FEDWASUN 21Figure 12: Lobbying exercise at the national level 22Figure 13: Reduced drudgery and increased dignity: 23

Women enjoying safe sanitation and water facilitiesFigure 14: Meaningful engagement of women in the WATSAN sector 23Figure 15: Capacity building training 25Figure16: National sanitation week celebrations 26Figure 17: Increasing participation in the WATSAN sector 27Figure 18: Case of project rehabilitation 28Figure 19: District wise achievements through Citizens' action programme 30

Acronyms iii

CBO Community Based Organisation

CDO Chief District Officer

DDC District Development Committee

DWSS Department of Water Supply and Sewerage

FAN Freshwater Action Network

FEDWASUN Federation of Drinking Water and Sanitation Users Nepal

GCAP Global Call for Action Against Poverty

GB Great Britain

INGO International Non Governmental Organisation

LDO Local Development Officer

MDG Millennium Development Goal

NAFNR National Advocacy Forum for Natural Resources

NEWAH Nepal Water for Health

NGO Non Governmental Organisation

NPC National Planning Commission

UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund

VDC village development committee

WAN WaterAid in Nepal

WATSAN Water and Sanitation

Acronyms

Introduction 1

1.1 Background

The Federation of Drinking Water and Sanitation UsersNepal (FEDWASUN) is a people-based umbrellaorganisation of drinking water and sanitation users'groups in Nepal. It facilitates the provision of drinkingwater and sanitation (WATSAN) services tocommunities, advocates for water and sanitation rights('water for all and forever'), brings people's issues tothe attention of policy makers and service providers,and promotes good governance in relation to bothusers' committees/groups and service providers.

Since its inception, FEDWASUN has actively supportedits members by advocating for sustainable policies andprogrammes in the water and sanitation sector. Incoordination with the Government of Nepal, I/NGOs,CBOs, donors and civil society, FEDWASUN helps toengender solidarity among users' groups to resolveissues in the WATSAN sector. At present, FEDWASUN isfocusing its advocacy efforts on the equitable,transparent and justifiable distribution of services tousers and encouraging the meaningful participation ofbeneficiaries, including men and women, the poor, andmarginalised and disadvantaged groups. FEDWASUNbelieves that users are the managers of the water andsanitation system and that they have the right to makedecisions about every aspect of water and sanitationschemes.

1.2 Genesis of FEDWASUN

In Nepal, many actors (the Government, I/NGOs, civilsociety, CBOs and the private sectors) are involved inpromoting water supply and sanitation schemes. Thereare also thousands of water and sanitation users'committees/groups involved in the operation andmaintenance of water and sanitation projects at the local

1 Introduction

level. However, most of the schemesare not sustainable and most users'groups face multi-dimensionalproblems at the policy andimplementation levels. Theseproblems include lack of awareness,lack of resource managementcapacity and lack of goodgovernance, both within thecommunity and by governmentauthorities and other implementingbodies.

The lack of a single organisation atthe national level to advocate forusers' rights meant that manyimportant issues, both policy andpractices, were unheard by theGovernment. There was a need foran organised forum to bring allusers' groups together to promotegood governance and sustainabilityin the water and sanitation sector inNepal. It was anticipated that sucha forum could advocate for users'rights, facilitate the formation ofuser-friendly policies, and promoteschemes to meet the needs of poorand marginalised people.

To promote the concept of afederation in the WATSAN sector,Nepal Water for Health (NEWAH),with the support of WaterAid Nepal(WAN), conducted preparatoryexercises starting in December2001. A series of consultationmeetings were organised withinNEWAH's five regional offices and

Advocating for water and sanitation for all and forever2

WAN to develop clarity andunderstanding about the conceptof federation building, define roles,and create a space for the projectin the sector. In addition,workshops on federation buildingwere organised at the district levelinvolving users' committees, localbodies, the Government, NGOs andother concerned stakeholders. Thefeedback from these workshopsfurther justified the need for awater and sanitation federation,both at the district and nationallevel, to bring all of the water andsanitation users' groups under oneumbrella, to be a strong voice forthe users. The need for afederation for the independentmonitoring and social auditing ofdrinking water and sanitationprojects is also acknowledged bythe Government of Nepal in itsRural Water Supply and SanitationNational Policy and Strategy 2004.

In July 2002, NEWAH conducted aprimary workshop on federationbuilding for participants fromDhading district representingdifferent water and sanitationstakeholders. After informationsharing and discussions, a nine-person coordination committeewas formed from among theparticipants. The CoordinationCommittee decided to set up acontact office in Dhading and aplan was drafted regarding thesharing of information withrespect to office staff,corresponding with and informingusers' groups, and the sharingresponsibilities. The participants

also discussed coordinating with village developmentcommittees (VDCs) and organising a secondworkshop at the national level.

Following this, a preparatory meeting was held byNEWAH headquarters to extend the federation buildingprocess at the district level. Initially, planning was doneto select one district from each of the five developmentregions. Five districts were chosen: Udayapur (EasternDevelopment Region), Dhading (Central DevelopmentRegion), Baglung (Western Development Region), Dang(Mid-Western Development Region) and Baitaidi (Far-Western Development Region). A series of workshopswere held on, 'District Drinking Water and SanitationSupport: Implementing Agencies and Stakeholders' ineach of the selected districts and a district levelcommittee was formed from among the participants.

As a result, the Federation of Drinking Water andSanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN) was established inAugust 2003 (B.S. 2060 Bhadra 10) and officiallyregistered at the Kathmandu District AdministrationOffice on 10 May 2004. Since then, FEDWASUN hasgrown to be an umbrella organisation for 1,258 usergroups, which have reached more than 1,50,000families in 33 districts of Nepal. Since its inception,FEDWASUN has been actively implementing thefollowing vision, mission, goal and objectives.

1.3 Vision

FEDWASUN's vision is to be known nationally andinternationally as a capable, strong networkrepresentative and a lead organisation for drinkingwater and sanitation users' groups throughout Nepal.(FEDWASUN Brochure, 2005)

1.4 Mission

FEDWASUN's mission is to protect the rights ofdrinking water and sanitation users' organisationsthroughout Nepal by raising their awareness, and

Introduction 3

organising and empowering them to attain theiradditional rights, and by advocating for access topolicy framing and decision-making. FEDWASUNsuccess will be based on inclusive participation with allstakeholders working together to ensure theavailability and sustainability of drinking water andsanitation. (FEDWASUN Brochure, 2005)

1.5 Goal

FEDWASUN's goal is to enhance the self-reliancecapacity of water and sanitation users' groups toinfluence policy making, planning and decision-making processes through meaningful participation,and to ensure sustainable water and sanitationcapacity throughout Nepal. (FEDWASUN Constitution,2004)

1.6 Objectives

The overall objectives of FEDWASUN, as described inits Constitution, are to:

Unify drinking water and sanitation users'organisations by facilitating the exchange ofknowledge, skills and experiences, building aculture of mutual assistance and goodwill.Establish interrelationships between local, districtand national level organisations for their mutualbenefit.Carry out a coordinated campaign of monitoringand evaluation to ensure sustainable, good qualityand safe drinking water and sanitation.Correct the procedural or practical blockage seen ingovernment policies, laws and programmes bytaking up these matters at the policy-making leveland drawing the attention of concerned governmentorganisations to unclear or ambiguous policies,laws and programmes and their unintended results.Help to establish a relationship and coordinationbetween the Government of Nepal and users'organisations and build their capacity.Establish necessary coordination and partnershipswith local bodies, I/NGOs and other concerned

stakeholders for the benefit ofthe Federation and users'organisations.Inform drinking water andsanitation users' organisationsabout the traditional, nationaland international laws ondrinking water and sanitation.Develop the Federation as aresponsible and capablerepresentative organisation forthe drinking water andsanitation users' groups inNepal and ensure itssustainability.(FEDWASUNConstitution, 2004)

1.7 Workingmethodology

In order to achieve the abovevision, mission, goal and objectiveswhile placing its core values at theheart of its work, FEDWASUN'sConstitution describes thefollowing working methodologies:

Organise technical, skills-based,awareness raising and legaltrainings, workshops, meetings,gatherings and visits that arenecessary to build the capacityof drinking water and sanitationusers' organisations andvarious units of this Federation.Implement awarenesscampaigns on sanitation,environmental balance andcleanliness from local tonational level and protectpeople's right to qualitydrinking water.Provide support as a mediatorto resolve personal disputesthat arise between the drinking


Networking

Advocacy

Commitment

Politicalimpartiality

Transparency

Social justiceand inclusion

Service oriented

Self-reliance

Democracy

COREVALUES

Figure 1: Core values of FEDWASUN

Source: FEDWASUN Brochure, 2005

water and sanitation users'organisations and assistorganisations that face legaland policy level issues.Improve the institutionalcapacity of users' organisationsand encourage them to practisegood governance, social justice,gender sensitivity, inclusiveparticipation and commonconsensus.Maintain necessaryrelationships with theGovernment and variousconcerned organisations andexchange support, advice andsuggestions.Carry out various activitiesnecessary and favourable fordrinking water and sanitationusers' organisations to achievetheir goals and objectives.Take approval fromGovernment, donors and otherconcerned stakeholders beforeimplementing programmes andcoordinate with them toimplement programmesaccording to FEDWASUN's goalsand working modalities.(FEDWASUN Constitution,2004)

1.8 Core Values

FEDWASUN has the following corevalues:

1.9 Governance Structure

FEDWASUN's Constitution (2004) provides aframework for its governance. For the effectiveoperation of the Federation, the Constitution providesfor the formation of a General Assembly, NationalCouncil, National Executive Committee, Secretariat,district branches and users' groups. According to itsConstitution, FEDWASUN is an apex body for water andsanitation users in Nepal, under which branches are tobe formed in each district. Each branch of theFederation is a collective representation of water andsanitation users' groups at the grassroots level. Eachusers' group represents the beneficiaries of water andsanitation services in each particular location.According to their roles and responsibilities,FEDWASUN's Central Office, district branches andusers' groups are accountable for executing regularworks, guided by the Secretariat, National ExecutiveCommittee, National Council and General Assembly.FEDWASUN's organisational structure is displayedbelow.

Introduction 5

1.9.1 General assemblyAccording to FEDWASUN's Constitution, the GeneralAssembly takes place once every four years. TheGeneral Assembly is the overall management body thatplans FEDWASUN's future activities, amends theConstitution if necessary, selects the members of theNational Executive Committee, executes the functionsof the National Council, and discusses and decides onother vital issues. The General Assembly containsrepresentatives from each district branch. The numberof participants in the General Assembly is determinedby the number of users' groups in each district, asshown in Figure 3.

The General Assembly also includes the NationalExecutive Committee's executives and members,representatives from the Government, I/NGO's, civilsociety, advisors and other people listed by theNational Executive Committee who are able to make ameaningful contribution.

1.9.2 National councilThe National Council is the secondmost vital body in FEDWASUN andits assembly takes place every year.The National Council is heldtogether with the General Assemblyevery four years. The NationalCouncil provides strategic directionand approval for programmes andbudgets submitted by the NationalExecutive Committee. It alsoappoints auditors and discussesand decides on proposals andother agreements. The Council iscomposed of one male and onefemale representative from eachdistrict, executives and members ofthe National Executive Committeeand other contributors from theGovernment, I/NGO s, CBOs andcivil society.

1.9.3 National executivecommitteeThe National Executive Committeeis composed of 20 memberselected at the General Assembly;two males and two females fromeach development region. Anadditional five members arenominated to represent peoplefrom remote areas andmarginalised groups (women,Dalits, indigenous peoples anddisadvantaged groups). The mainfunction of this committee is toperform all activities as directed bythe National Council and theGeneral Assembly. With permissionfrom the National Council, itformulates, implements andamends rules, regulations and

Figure 2: Organisational structure of FEDWASUN

Users' committee

District branches

General assembly

National council

National Executive committee(25 members)

Secretariat(9 members)

Number of users' Male Female Total*groups participants participants

1-20 1 1 2

21-50 2 2 4

Above 51 3 3 6

Figure 3: Composition of general assembly

WaterAid/ Anita Pradhan

FEDWASUN

FEDWASUN

FEDWASUNFEDWASUN

FEDWASUN

FEDWASUN

Naumule userscommittee meeting

First district assemblyof Makwanpur districtcommittee

First district assemblyof Ilam districtcommittee

FEDWASUN Kaskidistrict committeeformation meeting

First districtassembly of Baglungdistrict committee

Commitments topeople: first generalassembly of FEDWASUN

Dhading districtcommittee members

Introduction 7

policies for staff, administration and the organisationas a whole. It is mandatory for the National WorkingCommittee to meet at least three times a year todevelop a strategic organisational direction.

1.9.4 Permanent secretariatThe Secretariat was created to perform the day-to-dayand administrative activities of the General Assembly.The Secretariat is under the direction of the NationalExecutive Committee and is responsible forimplementing, monitoring and evaluating annualprogrammes, preparing annual budgets, opening bankaccounts, and managing financial and humanresources. The committee consists of nine members:President, Vice-president, Member Secretary, Treasurerand five other members. Committee meetings are heldas needed. Of the four vital positions, women must filltwo and it is mandatory to have 50% women on thiscommittee.

1.9.5 District branchesWith the permission of local authorities, districtbranches shall be formed in each target district ofNepal. Each district branch will have a district branchcommittee composed of a minimum of nine to amaximum of fifteen members. As with the Secretariat,out of the four vital positions, women must fill two andthe overall representation of women must be 50%. Thedistrict branch committees also incorporate membersfrom remote locations and marginalised groups. Thedistrict branches are responsible for registering withthe district water resource committee, identifyingdifferent service providers, coordinating andnetworking with other organisations, registering waterand sanitation users' groups, and implementing,monitoring and evaluating WATSAN programmes intheir district.

1.9.6 Users' committeesWater and sanitation users' committees are formed atthe grassroots level to represent different communities.

The composition of users'committees is similar to that ofdistrict branch committees in termsof number, gender and ethnicbalance. Water and sanitationusers' committees are formulatedfor the smooth operation,maintenance and monitoring ofwater and sanitation schemes andto ensure that local communitieshave access to such schemes.These grassroots committees areresponsible for bringing issues,problems and social disputes toservice providers and making thecommunity's voice heard.

In practice, most of the users'groups are incapable of bringingissues to the attention of serviceproviders. They are not usuallyknowledgeable about theschemes and budgets allocated totheir VDC and are never given anopportunity to plan, monitor anddecide on their own developmentneeds. This trend does notcontribute to project sustainabilityand effectiveness. Thus,FEDWASUN and its districtbranches are directing their effortstowards registering thesecommittees with the Federationand empowering them to advocatefor and bring about change in theircommunities to ensure safe andfree access to water and sanitationschemes. These users' groupsmust be registered with thedistrict water resource committeeor the concerned district level


body before they are eligible formembership of FEDWASUN.

The Rural Water Supply andSanitation National Policy andStrategy 2004 also recognises theimportance of users' committees atthe grassroots level. The RWSSNational Policy and Strategy 2004has committed to registering users'groups under the Water ResourceAct 1992 and Drinking WaterRegulation 1998, and toempowering them in terms of theplanning, operation, maintenanceand monitoring of water andsanitation schemes. The RWSSNational Strategy and Policy 2004also highlights the need forgeographic, ethnic and genderbalance to enhance equity in theWATSAN sector.

1.10 Organisationalsetup and humanresources

FEDWASUN is a volunteerorganisation. It has a central leveloffice at Thapathali in Kathmandu.Even though FEDWASU hasbranches in 33 districts, only someof the districts have major

programmes with permanent offices. The central officecoordinates with its district branch offices and fieldcontacts to implement programmes.

At FEDWASUN's central office, the National President,Secretary and Treasurer deal with day-to-day officeoperations. There are three paid staff: programmeofficer, accountant and office assistant. WAN has beensupporting FEDWASUN's central office operations andorganisational strengthening.

1.11 Financial resources

FEDWASUN depends on both internal and externalsources for its financial resources. Its main source ofinternal capital is users' committee registration feesand renewal fees. Each users' committee has to payNRs.300 for registration and NRs 100 annually forrenewal. Forty percent of registration and annual feesare allocated to the district branch and 60% toFEDWASUN's central office.

Externally, FEDWASUN seeks funding from differentdonors, the Government and other agencies within theboundaries of FEDWASUN's norms and values.FEDWASUN's financial resources are managed andoperated in a transparent way. FEDWASUN is requiredto conduct an annual audit within a month of the endof each fiscal year. The audit and the audit report mustbe conducted by a registered auditor appointed by theNational Council. The audit report must be submittedto the Social Welfare Council and other concernedbodies.

Introduction 9

1.12 National coverage andexpansion strategy

FEDWASUN is a growing organisation. Within half adecade of establishment it has expanded its branchoffices to 33 districts in 5 development regions (Figure 6).FEDWASUN is currently engaged in strengthening itsdistrict branches and implementing programmes tocontribute to its mission and vision. Its long-term strategyis to expand its branches to all 75 districts of Nepal.

Only by expanding it branches to all districts canFEDWASUN ensure sustainable and effective WATSANservices to all of the citizens of Nepal. For this, it aimsto empower locally established users' groups bybuilding their capacity and registering them withdistrict level bodies. It is FEDWASUN's belief that thelegitimisation and strong networking of districtbranches will contribute to development and povertyalleviation in the Nepal.

1.13 Networking, alliances andpartnerships

Initially, NEWAH and WAN supported the establishmentand institutional development of FEDWASUN. However,during the course of time, FEDWASUN has developedmany direct and indirect relationships with variousother organisations.

1.13.1 MembershipsFreshwater Action Network (FAN)Freshwater Action Network is a global network ofenvironmental and developmental non-governmentaland community based organisations working tostrengthen civil society participation in internationalwater policy. FEDWASUN became a member of its

South Asian Chapter in January2008. FEDWASUN's President isone of the focal persons of FAN'sinterim committee, South AsianChapter.

Global Call for Action againstPoverty (GCAP)FEDWASUN became a secretariatmember of the Nepal Chapter ofthe Global Call for Action againstPoverty (GCAP) in 2005. GCAP is acommon platform for 33 non-government agencies andfederations in Nepal to advocateand lobby for poverty alleviation.FEDWASUN has provided input tothe review of Nepal's progresstowards the MDGs by participatingin delegations, meetings, ralliesand other related events. TheChairperson of FEDWASUNparticipated in the internationalconference Bada na Todo Abhiyan(Don't Break the PromiseMovement) in Delhi in April 2005.

National Advocacy Forum forNatural Resources (NAFNR)FEDWASUN is a founding memberof the National Advocacy Forum forNatural Resources, Nepal, 2006. Itis a forum established to advocatefor people's rights in relation towater, forests and land. FEDWASUNhas been participating in thisforum's vital programmes inrelation to water.


FEDWASUN

WAN




FEDWASUN representative inFreshwater Action Network, SouthAsia Regional Consultation andPlanning meeting

FEDWASUN representatives fromdifferent districts participatingorientation programme

FEDWASUN representativeparticipating in WaterAid AsiaRegional Advocacy Meeting held inBangladesh

FEDWASUNrepresentativeparticipating in MediaTraining held in Pakistan

FEDWASUN representativeparticipating in WaterAidAsia Regional BudgetAdvocacy Training

Introduction 11

Figure 4: FEDWASUN's functional relationships with government bodies

Government sector Type of functional relationship

National Planning Commission (NPC) Mostly one-way proposals from FEDWASUN, which have not beenseriously considered by the NPC

Ministry of Physical Planning and Works Policy level

Ministry of Local Development (district Joint activities (e.g., monitoring, the celebration of National Sanitation

development committee, village development Week) and two-way invitations to important events and meetingscommittee, municipality)

Department of Water and Sewerage Policy level and practice (e.g., joint activities and participation indifferent events and meetings)

Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources Interaction for water resource allocation and provisionand Development Committee

Steering Committee for NationalSanitation Action, NepalFEDWASUN is a SteeringCommittee Member of Steeringcommittee for National SanitationAction, Nepal, which wasestablished in 1998. As such, it hasbeen monitoring NationalSanitation Action Week activitiesannually in different districts ofNepal. During monitoring,FEDWASUN's officials observedand attended programmes,interacted with district levelofficials and clarified the vision andmission of FEDWASUN with waterand sanitation users' groups andother concerned agencies.

District Water Resource CommitteeFEDWASUN is a member of the District Water ResourceCommittees in Baitadi, Pyuthan, Baglung, Dhading,Ilam and Surkhet districts. As a member, FEDWASUNtakes part in all important meetings and events.FEDWASUN advocates for the proper allocation ofwater resources through this forum.

National Drinking Water Quality Control CommitteeFEDWASUN became a member of the National DrinkingWater Quality Control Committee in 2008.

1.13.2 Partnerships and relationshipsGovernment sectorThe Government of Nepal has gradually recognised theimportance of FEDWASUN's role in the WATSAN sector.Accordingly, FEDWASUN's relationship with differentgovernment bodies has grown.

I/NGOs and donorsFEDWASUN is working in partnership with WaterAid inNepal, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) andOxfam GB in 18 districts of Nepal. Its majorprogrammes and details are elaborated in thefollowing chapter.


Since its establishment, FEDWASUN has beenaddressing development needs in the WATSAN sectorby initiating and executing different kinds of activities.FEDWASUN has conducted many programmes to raiseawareness, improve governance and deliver services inthe WATSAN sector. Through the study and analysis ofwater and sanitation users' groups and past schemes,FEDWASUN has been able to identify different issuesand help users resolve problems, both at thegrassroots and at the policy level. In coordination withdistrict level stakeholders, FEDWASUN celebratesNational Sanitation Week every year and conductsvarious trainings and public hearing programmes.Currently, FEDWASUN is carrying out the followingmajor programmes in 33 districts of Nepal.

2.1 Citizens' action programme

2.1.1 OverviewSince April 2005, FEDWASUN in coordination withWaterAid Nepal has been implementing the Citizens'action programme in Dhading, Baglung, Makwanpur,Ilam, Pyuthan, Baitadi, Dang, Gulmi districts. A multi-

2 Major programmes

year plan has been developed forthe Citizens' action programme.The main objective of theprogramme is to improve waterand sanitation governance(responsiveness, equity,accountability and transparency)through citizens' action andbudget tracking, helping to makeservice providers accountable,responsive and ensuring that theyprovide services in a sustainableand equitable manner. Througheffective advocacy, theprogramme aims to identify andanalyse water and sanitationissues, and advocate forappropriate action at all levels(VDC, DDC and national). Theprogramme encouragescommunities to take ownership oftheir own development workthrough active participation inidentifying issues, planning,implementing, evaluating andmonitoring projects in atransparent and accountable way(Figure 5). In this way theprogramme helps to encouragemeaningful participation by all,including marginalised groups, inthe decision-making process. Thisengagement helps bridge the gapbetween service providers andbeneficiaries.

2.1.2 Major activitiesThe major activities of the Citizens'action programme are:

Figure 5: Citizens' action cycle

Situation analysis

Citizens' actionCycle

Evaluation

Implementation Preparation ofaction plan

District levelinteractions and

consensusbuilding

Review ofconditions with

memberorganisations

Orientation ofdistrict level

officials

Major programmes 13

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Citizen action programmeorientation to FEDWASUNDhading DistrictCommittee members

Citizen action programmeorientation to FEDWASUNBaglung DistrictCommittee members

Citizen action programmeorientation to FEDWASUNIlam District Committeemembers

Citizen action programmeorientation to FEDWASUNMakwanpur DistrictCommittee members

Celebrating NationalSanitation Action Week

FEDWASUN Baitadi:Community participatingin consultations

Major programmes 15

Status review of water and sanitation situationthrough interactions and orientation training fordistrict branch members on legal aspects of waterand sanitation and governanceCollection of issues through direct interaction withusers' groups in different districtsAnalysis of the WATSAN budget for the last fiveyears and fund utilisation monitoringMonitoring of the implementation of the RuralWater Supply and Sanitation National Policy andStrategy 2004Participatory analysis and prioritisation of issuesPresentation of users' evidence-based issues todistrict level service providers through aninteractive workshopParticipatory preparation of action plans withrepresentatives of water and sanitation users'committees and service providersImplementation of action plans in closecoordination with FEDWASUN district branchesMonitoring of implementation of action plansthrough periodical/annual review meetings andfield visits

2.2 Users' empowerment andsupport programme

2.2.1 OverviewWith UNICEF's support, FEDWASUN has beenimplementing the Users' Empowerment and SupportProgramme in Panchthar, Udayapur, Tanahun,Nawalparasi and Kavre districts since August 2006. Themain objective of this programme is to support theexpansion of the district branch in Panchthar and theregistration and empowerment of users' committees inall five programme districts.

2.2.2 Major activitiesThe major activities of the Users' Empowerment andSupport Programme are:

Selection of 10 VDCs for the programme andlegitimisation of users' groups as per the provisions

of the Rural Water Supply andSanitation National Policy andStrategy 2004 Formation of FEDWASUNdistrict branch in PanchthardistrictCollection of baseline data andreporting to identify activities toenhance the capacity of users'groupsClassification, prioritisationplanning and proposal ofactivities to stakeholders forimplementation in the comingyearProvision of water users'committee managementtraining to 40 different users'groups, 8 in each districtFacilitation of the formation,activation and registration of500 users' groups (100 in eachdistrict) under the DistrictResource Act

2.3 Expansion andempowerment ofWATSAN users'committeeprogramme

2.3.1 OverviewOxfam GB has been supportingFEDWASUN to implement theExpansion and Empowerment ofWATSAN Users' CommitteeProgramme in Surkhet, Dailekh,Kathmandu, Bhaktapur andLalitpur districts of Nepal sinceMarch 2007. The programme aimsto create awareness of drinkingwater and sanitation issues


through FEDWASUN districtbranches by encouraging theparticipation of a maximumnumber of women. Nepal is apatriarchal society and women facemore problems than men inrelation to water and sanitation,hence, the focus of the programmeis on women's empowerment. Theprogramme believes that theempowerment of women can havea multiplier effect within the familyand society in terms of creatingawareness and handling water andsanitation problems efficiently. Theprogramme also disseminatesinformation on water and sanitationissues, problems and possiblesolutions.

2.3.2 Major activitiesThe major activities of theExpansion and Empowerment ofWATSAN Users' CommitteeProgramme are:

Mobilising and gatheringdistrict water and sanitationusers' groups to be members ofFEDWASUN district chaptersCoordination of stakeholders'meetings to discuss water andsanitation plans and issues

Provision of advocacy training focusing oninstitutional development, gender, leadership,capacity building advocacy, resource managementand governance, and introduction of FEDWASUN tothe district branch committee membersDissemination of information to users' groups ondrinking water and sanitation issues and solutionsEncouraging water and sanitation users' groups toconduct situation analysis/case studiesProvision of orientation on different aspects ofwater and sanitation to users' groupsNational level workshops for district levelrepresentatives (e.g., on the role of stakeholders inoperation and maintenance)

2.4 District branchesimprovement programme

FEDWASUN has been working to improve the districtbranches of the Federation in Dhankuta, Khotang, Jhapa,Morang, Sunsari, Ramechap, Sindhuli, Partbat, Myagdi,Gulmi, Rupandehi, Kaski, Lamjung, Dang, Dadeldhura,Darchula and Doti districts of Nepal by building theirinstitutions and expanding users' groups. Even thoughthese districts do not have regular programmes, districtbranches celebrate National Sanitation Week, participatein the General Assembly and National Council, andparticipate in trainings, workshops and other activitiesrelated to water and sanitation.

Achievements and lessons 17

3.1 Achievements

Not even a decade after its establishment, theFederation of Drinking Water and Sanitation UsersNepal is recognised as an umbrella organisation forusers' groups involved in the sustainable operation andmaintenance of drinking water and sanitation projectsin Nepal. The existence of FEDWASUN is wellacknowledged by the Government, line agencies,donors, I/NGOs, CBOs, civil society and otherstakeholders. Its success has attracted the attention ofpartner organisations and donors interested in workingwith FEDWASUN.

Through its activities, FEDWASUN has shown that goodgovernance is necessary for the achievement ofsustainable water and sanitation services. FEDWASUNbelieves that good governance can only emerge whenstakeholders engage and participate with each other inan inclusive, transparent and accountable manner toaccomplish sustainable services within the rule of law.Thus, FEDWASUN is promoting activities that supportgood governance. Its major achievements aresummarised in the following sections.

3.1.1 Enhancing transparencyIn accordance with its Constitution, FEDWASUN hasbeen working to enhance transparency in the WATSANsector through different programmes. It is difficult forcitizens in Nepal to obtain information from WATSANservice providers freely and directly, even though it isthe citizens who are directly affected by the decisionsthat service providers make. FEDWASUN hasrecognised citizens' right to information and iscoordinating with different service providers to ensurethat all citizens, including poor and marginalisedgroups, can have fair access to water and sanitationservices and information.

3 Achievements andlessons

To promote transparency in relationto the allocation of funds and theadministration of the WATSANbudget, FEDWASUN recentlyundertook a budget analysis(Sector and Local Financing Study)as part of its Citizens' actionprogramme. As part of the study,FEDWSUN collected and analysedfive years of budget records in theWATSAN sector. These recordswere obtained from governmentagencies and other serviceproviders in various districts.FEDWASUN was able to obtain thisconfidential information due to itstrusted position and relationshipwith service providers andstakeholders in the sector. Thisbudget tracking has helped tocreate a complete picture of theuse of funds in the WATSAN sectorby government and non-government projects (both on andoff-budget). FEDWASUN hopes thatthis analysis will help users' groupsto ensure the effective use of fundsin the sector, plan activities, andprevent corruption and leakages.FEDWASUN's budget analysis isconsidered a major achievement bysector stakeholders. In the past,local communities were notinformed of funds allocated by theGovernment to their VDC for waterand sanitation, and, hence, wereunaware of missing funds andcorruption. Local communities are


now empowered to ask questionsabout allocated budgets and makeservice providers accountable.

In addition, FEDWASUN conducteda Public Hearing Programme, whichprovided a meaningful arena forcitizens, service providers and theGovernment to discuss service-related issues, investment andreform. Public hearings provide aforum for face-to-face dialoguebetween different service providersand users' groups, in which thepublic can directly ask aboutWATSAN issues such as allocatedfunds, plans and programmes,implementation failures and otherissues. This programme ensuresthat the poorest members of thecommunity, disadvantaged groupsand women have a chance to maketheir voices heard by the serviceproviders. It also helps to enhancetransparency in the WATSAN sectorby making service providers moreaccountable and responsive.

FEDWASUN has also facilitatedfrequent stakeholders meetings forpeople holding positions ofresponsibility in the WATSANsector. Major participants includethe Chief District Officer, LocalDevelopment Officer, Chief ofDistrict Drinking Water Division,representatives from the DDC, VDC,District Water Resource Committee,users' groups, other serviceproviders, members of civil societyand journalists. These interactivediscussions have enabledFEDWASUN to resolve manyWATSAN issues and disseminate

information to the community. Stakeholder meetingsand public hearings help to boost community interestin the WATSAN sector and build the capacity ofcommunities to fight for their rights throughconstructive interaction.

When FEDWASUN completed the study on sector and

local financing, it held a presentation in Dhading

district on budget allocation and investment by the

DWSS and DDC over the last five years. Government

representatives, members of political parties, and

water and sanitation users’ groups were present at

the meeting. The participants were overwhelmed by

the work done by FEDWASUN and praised its initiative.

Budget analysis in Ilam, Dhading, Makwanpur and

Baglung districts also revealed that minimal funds

were allocated for the repair and maintenance of

WATSAN projects. Also, 9 VDCs in Ilam, 7 in Dhading,

13 in Makwanpur and 19 in Baglung were found to have

no WATSAN budget at all. This fact was revealed in a

stakeholders meeting at which people from

responsible institutions were informed of the facts. As

a result, some authorities have committed to

increase/allocate funds in the WATSAN budget to

these VDCs. This analysis has provided FEDWASUN

with a rational platform from which to advocate for

improvements to WATSAN services and budgets.

Figure 7: Budget tracking

Reporting tostakeholders on localfinancing in Dhading


Through the use of media and publications,FEDWASUN is trying to ensure that people are receivingthe correct information about WATSAN issues. Forinstance, FEDWASUN’s Dhading chapter is running amedia campaign through Radio Dhading. A 15-minuteradio programme called Hamro Boli (Our Voice) isbroadcast twice a week. It includes information onFEDWASUN, water and sanitation rights, local, national

and international information onWATSAN issues, upcoming events,users’ groups’ analyses, interviewswith stakeholders and other issues.Likewise, Radio Ilam is also airing abi-weekly radio programme onwater and sanitation. Similarly, theradio programmes werebroadcasted in Makwanpur,Baglung and Pyuthan in 2008. In ashort period of time, theseprogrammes have gained a hugefollowing and there is greatdemand to increase theirbroadcasting time. Due to thissuccess, FEDWASUN is planning toexpand the radio programmes toother district chapters.

FEDWASUN district chapters alsouse local newspapers todisseminate important informationon public hearings, notices,upcoming events, and news relatedto water and sanitation.

FEDWASUN is also making aconcerted effort to collectinformation on WATSAN issues andto document, publish anddisseminate such information toconcerned stakeholders.FEDWASUN has already publishedtwo issues of a periodicpublication called Aawaj containingfacts, issues and perspectives onthe water and sanitation sector.

FEDWASUN has prepared andsubmitted proceedings, progressreports and other relateddocuments to concerned agencies,including WAN, UNICEF, OXFAM GBand DWSS. FEDWASUN has

Public hearings and stakeholder meetings provide a

platform for sharing information and make service

providers accountable for and responsive to

community needs.

In Dhading District, the Kumpur Drinking Water

Scheme was not functioning due to serious technical

faults. Local people were spending much time and

effort in accessing water from other sources. When

FEDWASUN raised the issue and lobbied on behalf of

the local people, the authorities were no longer able

to ignore the issue. The case was reviewed and the

CDO, LDO and Chief of Drinking Water Division made a

commitment to survey the scheme and re-start its

operation. The information regarding the re-operation

and allocated budget was transparently disseminated

to the community.

Figure 8: FEDWASUN enhancing transparency

Public hearing inDhading


Figure 9: Publication: Aawaj

published and publicly distributedvarious documents including itsbrochure, calendar and constitution(see Figure 10).

3.1.2 Accountability andresponsivenessFEDWASUN, through its activities,has been successful in enhancingaccountability and responsivenessamong users' groups and service

providers. Users' groups are formed through a formalprocess of registration with the District WaterResource Committee. It is mandatory for users'groups to have their legal documents in order andwork according to their constitution. FEDWASUN ishelping users' groups to gain legitimacy by assistingthem with the preparation of a constitution and withregistration. These groups are not only responsible forthe proper operation and maintenance for their waterand sanitation schemes, but also have a duty to bringlocal perspectives and issues to the service providers.Through critical mass and institutionalised citizen'sengagement, FEDWASUN has been able to enhancepublic accountability, performance andresponsiveness in the WATSAN sector.

Through case studies and the monitoring of WATSANprojects, FEDWASUN has been able to analyse theperformance of service providers and raise questionsabout their functionality. This has helped to determine if

Figure 10: FEDWASUN's key documents/publications

List of documents/publications Language Date(Nepali calendar)

Sixth National Sanitation Week Report, June 2005 Nepali 2062 BS Ashad

FEDWASUN Constitution and Regulations Nepali 2061 BS Baishak 28th

Jilla Mahasang Sachetana Gosthi Pratibedhan

(Report on District Federation Awareness Workshop)

for Dhading, Makwanpur and Kavre Districts Nepali 2061 BS Chaitra

Karyakram Dastavegh (Programme Document), FEDWASUN Nepali 2061 BS Chaitra

First National Mahaadibeshan (15-16 Chaitra 2061) Report, FEDWASUN Nepali 2061 BS Chaitra

Hamro Aawaj Vol 1 - Three monthly Nepali 2062 BS Paush

Hamro Aawaj Vol 2 - Three monthly Nepali 2063 BS Mangsir

Monthly Report, April 2005- January 2006 English

Brochure, FEDWASUN, 2004 Nepali

Process Document - Institutional Development of FEDWASUN Nepali 2062 BS Jestha 29th

Programme Document - FEDWASUN English

Citizen Voice Report of Makwanpur, Baglung and Dhading Districts Nepali

Strategic Planning Document Nepali

Nagarik Aawaj Tatha Awastha Adhyan Abhimukhikaran Karyashana, NepaliReport (Falgun 2062)

Case Study Report of Ilam, Kavre, Pyuthan, Nawalparasi and Baitadi Districts Nepali 2062 BS Chaitra


projects are sustainable, and, if not, to develop newstrategies to ensure sustainability. The case studies havebeen very useful for FEDWASUN, not only to advocateand lobby for the rehabilitation and upgrading ofexisting projects, but also to provide a new direction forupcoming projects. The case studies have helped to putpressure on service providers and decision makers toallocate resources to the most urgent projects.

FEDWASUN district chapters areactively involved in monitoringongoing WATSAN projects in thedistricts. To enhance theaccountability of each stakeholder,FEDWASUN has formed jointmonitoring committees comprisedof representatives from the DDC,Drinking Water Supply DivisionalOffice and FEDWASUN in Dhadingdistrict and is in the process offorming monitoring committees insome other districts.

Through advocacy and lobbying,FEDWASUN has been successful inmaking community voices heard innational and local level policydebates in the WATSAN sector. Inmany cases, Citizens' actionprogrammes have been verysuccessful in improving WATSANgovernance in terms ofresponsiveness, equity,accountability and transparency.

In the short period of time since itsestablishment in 2004, FEDWASUNhas been successful in extendingits networks at the international,national and local levels and hasbeen able to stand as anaccountable and responsiveorganisation in the WATSAN sector.Locally, FEDWASUN has direct andindirect relationships with VDCsand DDCs in all 33 districts and hasbeen successful in coordinatingactivities in the districts. Forexample, Dhading DDC has recentlyallocated a budget for FEDWASUNto conduct a training programmeon community empowerment.FEDWASUN was also invited to

In 1980, with assistance from UNICEF, the Maichowk

Khola Drinking Water Scheme was implemented in

Maichowk, Ilam. At that time, the scheme was serving

34 households with 6 taps. After 10 years, the scheme

could no longer provide drinking water to the

community. The community asked the Department of

Drinking Water, Ilam Branch several times to upgrade

the scheme with an additional 6 taps. After a year, the

problem was still not resolved.

When FEDWASUN's branch was formed in Ilam it

conducted a situation analysis of the scheme and put

the issue before stakeholders at various meetings. As

FEDWASUN was able to prove the need for and urgency

of the scheme, the Chief of District Drinking Water

Division committed to repairing the structures. This

initiative helped 180 people to access drinking water.

Figure 11: Growing responsiveness of serviceproviders through FEDWASUN

FEDWASUN


observe the DDC's Annual GeneralAssembly and participated in DDCsector planning. At the national andinternational level, FEDWASUN hasbeen coordinating with donors, I/NGOs and the government toconduct WATSAN activities. Forexample, FEDWASUN was invitedby the National PlanningCommission as a responsiveinstitute and task force member todraft a Three Year Interim Plan onthe WATSAN sector.

As good governance includesconstructive cooperation betweendifferent stakeholders, FEDWASUNis trying to ensure goodrelationships and mediationbetween users, service providersand policy makers. All these goodpractices reflect FEDWASUN'saccountability and responsivenessin relation to WATSAN governanceand reveal its efforts to empowercitizens to fight for their rights andhold policy makers accountable inthe WATSAN sector.

3.1.3 Enhancing equityIn Nepal, social inequalitiesbetween economic classes,gender, ethnicities and othersocial groups have impeded thedevelopment process. In the waterand sanitation sector, themarginalisation of vulnerablepeople is extensive. FEDWASUN,since its inception, has been tryingto ensure that all stakeholders,including the poor anddisadvantaged, have anopportunity to influencedevelopment decisions that affect

their lives, to contribute to development and to sharebenefits and improve their livelihoods. Thus,FEDWASUN is promoting equity by promotingpeople's participation in a democratic way.

FEDWASUN, in consultation with other stakeholders,

decided to lobby for an increase in the national

WATSAN budget. FEDWASUN's national president and

a delegation team requested the Finance Minister to

increase the budget on 13 June 2007. The Minister

accepted the request and thanked the president for

providing him with information about FEDWASUN's

projects.

FEDWASUN submitted a letter of complaint (dated 20

March 2008) to the Prime Minister, who is also the

Chairperson of the National Development Council, for

not inviting FEDWASUN to the Council meeting. A copy

of this letter was provided the Vice Chairperson of the

National Planning Commission.

On World Water Day, 22 March 2008, FEDWASUN

handed over 150,000 signatures to Prime Minister

Girija Prasad Koirala. These signatures were collected

as part of a nationwide campaign to end water

poverty.

Figure 12: Lobbying exercise at the national level

People's participation ina signature campaign to

end water poverty


Women are one of the excluded groups in Nepalesesociety, and they experience poverty in different waysthan men. Women bear a disproportionate burden inrelation to water collection from distant sources.FEDWASUN is pushing for the provision of access tosafe water supply and appropriate sanitation to savewomen time and energy, and ensure their security.Improved sanitation services also save women and girlsfrom humiliation and harassment, which theyexperience when defecating in open spaces.

Figure 13: Reduced drudgery and increased dignity:women enjoying safe sanitation and water facilities

To overcome gender inequality,FEDWASUN's governance system hasbeen strictly promoting women'sparticipation at the decision-makinglevel by reserving seats for women. In33 district branch committees,women's participation has alreadyexceeded 50%. Out of the four vitalpositions of chairperson, vice-chairperson, treasurer and joint-

Figure 14: Meaningful engagement of women in the WATSAN sector


secretary, it is mandatory for two tobe filled by women.

Likewise, FEDWASUN has alsoreserved positions in users' groupsfor disadvantaged members of thecommunity and has beenpromoting the inclusivecomposition of Federationmembership. This is one of theaffirmative actions taken regardinggender equality and socialinclusion. Moreover, throughdifferent programmes, FEDWASUNis trying to maximise themeaningful engagement ofmarginalised people in theWATSAN sector.

Provision of water to 660dalit households

In Chainpur VDC in Dhading

District, 606 Dalit households

were deprived of drinking water

facilities. FEDWASUN lobbied

the concerned VDC to construct

lifting technology to pull water

when electricity came to the

village. As a result of this

initiative, service providers

were made aware of the

problem of marginalised people

and were forced to take some

affirmative action.

This illustrates FEDWASUN’s

continuous efforts to advocate

on behalf of poor and

disadvantaged communities,

empowering them and

increasing their capacity to act

and advocate for themselves.

3.1.4 Establishing the rule of lawFEDWASUN has recognised that the rule of law is crucialfor sustainable water and sanitation services. Effectivewater governance starts with good policies andlegislative frameworks that protect water resourcesagainst exploitation. Hence, FEDWASUN is trying toestablish the rule of law in this sector, both in policy andin practice. Unlike the common trend in Nepal, wheregood policies and rules exist only on paper, FEDWASUNis making a concerted effort to follow its Constitution,and comply with government water policies andregulations. For instance, FEDWASUN's policy placesgender equality as a high priority in its governancesystem; accordingly, FEDWASUN has strictly applied thispolicy in practice. As a result, women's participation inWATSAN governance has already exceeded 50%.

In order to protect water resource management againstexploitation and ensure its sustainable use, FEDWASUNhas lobbied the DWRCs to allow its branches tobecome members. As a result, FEDWASUN' districtbranches have been successful in obtainingmembership and participate in important meetings andevents. This process helps to ensure that waterresources are fairly and adequately distributed tousers' groups. Where resources are not allocated fairly,as a legitimate member of district water resourcecommittees, FEDWASUN can put issues forwardstrongly to bring justice to the community. FEDWASUNdistrict chapters are also pushing users' groups toestablish water resource management in theirneighbourhoods and establish the rule of law.

Due to FEDWASUN's effectiveness, it has been invitedby various task forces and committees, such as theHuman Rights Forum, Journalist Federation, CommunityForest Federation, DWSS Division and the DDC, toattend meetings and consultations.

At the grassroots, FEDWASUN is trying to establishmanagement mechanisms by helping users' groups towrite their constitutions and become registered withtheir local bodies. This helps to legitimise communityusers' groups and gives the community an identity.


Registration also helps users' groups to function withinFEDWASUN's legal framework.

Moreover, to create awareness among users' groupsabout water laws and the legal aspects of running anorganisation in the WATSAN sector, FEDWASUN hasbeen actively involved in organising communityawareness programmes and empowering localstakeholders to participate in problem solving,planning and strategic decision making processes.FEDWASUN's attempt to build the capacity of localcommunities through different trainings has enabledusers' groups to articulate their own needs and desires,increased their confidence to influence decisions, andto understand the rule of law and practise itaccordingly. The trainings have helped to enhanceusers' groups' knowledge in different areas and theircapacity to distinguish the right or wrong path.

3.1.5 Increasing people'sparticipationFEDWASUN has been recognisedas an institution where people canparticipate, mediate theirinterests, exercise their rights andmake decisions for the deliveryand provision of WATSAN services.FEDWASUN's initiative to enhancepeople's participation in theWATSAN sector is furtherhighlighted by the recent signaturecampaign to end water poverty. Inthis campaign, 150,000 peopleparticipated from differentdistricts in Nepal and sent themessage to end water poverty bypresenting a petition onInternational Water Day (22 March2008).

Since 2005, FEDWASN has beensuccessfully involving people in thecelebration of National SanitationWeek. By organising differentprogrammes like rallies, bannerdisplays, street dramas, radioprogrammes, interactiveprogrammes, essay competitions,drawing competitions and quizcontests, the organisation haspromoted the importance of heath,hygiene and sanitation and createdawareness of water and sanitationissues among the people. As aresult of FEDWASUN's initiativesand success in stressing theimportance of good sanitationpractices through people'sparticipation, communities andusers groups have started

Capacity building

Types of capacity building training that have been

provided to FEDWASUN personnel:

Localising Millennium Development Goal Targets

on Water and Sanitation

Drinking Water and Sanitation as Fundamental

Rights

Gender and Poverty

Leadership Skills

Advocacy Training

Resource Management

Users' Group Management

Role of Stakeholders in Operation and

Maintenance

Report Writing

Governance

Role of FEDWASUN in WATSAN Sector

Role of Country in Sanitation Management:

International Year of Sanitation 2008

Figure 15: Capacity building training


incorporating the observation ofNational Sanitation Week in theirannual project plans. Many remotecommunities have demanded thatthe district centres allocate fundsto celebrate the event.

FEDWASUN has also been activelyfacilitating people's participation toraise a collective voice for justice.By organising different activitiesand events, and by sharingexperiences, FEDWASUN has

Mediating a social dispute

A dispute on the use of water

resource was raised between

irrigators and the drinking water

users from Adimghat Bansetar

Drinking Water Scheme in

Dhading. The case was filed at

the District Court, but the court

could not resolve the case and

gave no decision. The issue was

again raised in a WATSAN

stakeholders meeting and

FEDWASUN successfully

mediated the case. As a result,

both parties came to a

consensus to use the scheme

for drinking water and, when

there was a surplus, to use it for

irrigation. FEDWASUN, through

dialogue and people's

participation, was successful in

resolving this social dispute.

Call for participation in and celebration of National

Sanitation Week: Message broadcast by Radio Nepal

(8 and 9 May 2005):

"Due to lack of proper water and sanitation provisions

around 15,000 children die annually in Nepal. By

forming habits to wash hands in proper way and

proper time, death of half of these children can be

prevented. Thus, it is mandatory to wash hands with

soap-water or ash-water before making food, eating

food, feeding children and after using toilet. For this,

lets participate and raise awareness in the community

and make National Sanitation Week (from May 9 to 16

May 2005) a successful event."

Figure16: National sanitation week celebrations

c) Banner to

celebrate National

Sanitation Week

a) Raising the

awareness of

school children by

illustrating how to

wash your hands

with soap

b) Awareness-

raising cultural

programme


created a platform for people to participate and hasbuilt their confidence in demanding their rights.FEDWASUN has also been successful in mediatingsocial disputes and settling them through dialogue andparticipation.

Moreover, FEDWASUN has been successful inincreasing people's participation in the WATSAN sectorby expanding its district chapters and users' groups(Figure 17).

All these activities reveal that FEDWASUN, throughcitizen's participation, has strengthened individuals, aswell as communities, and has been able to getcommunities involved in their own development byaddressing actual problems in the local context.

3.1.6 Programme sustainability andeffectivenessSince its establishment, FEDWASUN has been workingto make its programmes effective and sustainable.Towards this, FEDWASUN conducted a situationanalysis of past water and sanitation schemes to checkwhether or not the schemes were effective andsustainable. This research became the foundation for

Activating latrines

In Makwanpur, FEDWASUN analysed latrines in

Thingan, Sukaura and Gadi VDC and found 108

useless latrines. FEDWASUN, together with the local

community, was able to activate 65 latrines and

provide better facilities for the citizens.

the organisation's programmes.Through participatory discussionswith users' groups, FEDWASUNprioritised projects according tourgency and allocated funds toimplement them. FEDWASUN'swork in the reactivation of pastwater schemes has enhancedpeople's livelihoods in manycommunities in Nepal.

FEDWASUN has studied the statusof users' groups and analysed theirfunctionality at the communitylevel. FEDWASUN has also played adynamic role in activating passiveusers' groups and forming newgroups. This process has helpedinstil community ownership in theusers' groups and encouragedthem to advocate for accountabilityamong WATSAN service providersand agencies. Through thereactivation of defunct users'groups and the establishment ofcommunity ownership, users'groups have been able to improvethe effectiveness of projects andbring change to their communities.

To enhance project effectiveness,FEDWASUN has been careful toavoid activity and resourceduplication. Of FEDWASUN's three

Figure 17: Increasing participation in the WATSAN sector

Description Year

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Number of districts covered 3 5 15 23 26 33

Number of users' group 32 58 240 665 750 1,258

Number of Families 1,920 3,480 14,400 39,900 45,000 60,000

Figure 18: Case of project rehabilitation

Ownership makes a difference:A success story

In 1985, the late King Birendra of

Nepal granted a drinking water

supply project on the basis of

collective demand, to the people of

Makwanpurgadhi in Makwanpur

District. The project was designed

for a 20-year period and aimed to

serve around 5,000 local people.

Construction work on the project

was completed in 1988, through a

contractor, as per contemporary

government policy. The Government

established an office in the village

to operate the project.

Local people were unaware about

the project's planning,

implementation, management and

operation processes. Due to lack of

financial resources, in 1993, the

government merged its site office

into the District Office. Despite

supervision support, the service

level of the project gradually

decreased due to the absence of

regular operations, maintenance

mechanisms and ownership by the

local people. By the fifth year of the

project, most local people were

again forced to use traditional

water sources. In 1997, the ailing

project was handed over to a users'

committee by the Government.

There were not enough financial

resources within the committee to

repair the project; however, they

managed to partially operate the

project until 2003.

The users' committee became a

formal member of FEDWASUN in

2003. FEDWASUN conducted a situation analysis of the

project from the users' perspectives as an integral part

of its Citizens' action programme. Based on its findings

in the district, FEDWASUN started lobbying the project

in different sectors to get the financial aid and technical

support needed for the project's rehabilitation. After a

series of attempts, the users' committee succeeded in

incorporating the project in the annual plan of the

District Development Committee (DDC). The DDC and

VDC contributed the essential budget, which amounted

to NRs.575,000, to rehabilitate the project. The users'

committee planned, implemented, managed and

monitored the entire project, and finally succeeded in

rehabilitating the near-defunct project. They now have a

functional users' committee; operation and

maintenance funds; and, more importantly, they have

increased ownership of the project among the people.

Reservoir tank

Users' committeemeeting


major programmes in 16 districts, none overlap in thesame district.

FEDWASUN is pushing service providers to allocatesufficient capital funds for the maintenance andrehabilitation of assets to ensure that they remain ingood working order. Due to FEDWASUN's advocacy foran increased WATSAN budget, there is a growing trendamong service providers to increase funding in thesector. FEDWASUN has also taken initiatives topromote user-friendly policies and plan and enhanceproject effectiveness.

All of FEDWASUN's activities have contributed to theachievement of the UN Millennium Development Goals.In addition to Goal 7, which aims to reduce by half theproportion of people without sustainable access tosafe drinking water and adequate sanitation by 2015,FEDWASUN's activities have directly and indirectlyimpacted on development as a whole and, hence,contributed to poverty reduction. For example, theincreased number of users' groups and communityparticipation means that more and more schemes arebeing planned and implemented. This means that thetime and energy previously used for carrying water canbe reallocated to other activities, including livelihoodactivities. Access to drinking water and sanitationservices also improves health, thereby decreasingschool dropout rates and increasing productivity. It canalso reduce child mortality rates and improve maternalhealth for expecting mothers. Through the constructionof sanitation facilities, FEDWASUN has helped toreduce environmental contamination and improveenvironmental sustainability. FEDWASUN has alsoprovided training for its district federations and users'groups on localising the Millennium DevelopmentGoals.

FEDWASUN has been continuously trying to improve itsgovernance through different activities in its workingdistricts. FEDWASUN's district-wise key achievementsthrough citizens' action are summarised in thefollowing table (Figure 19).

3.2 Lessons learned

FEDWASUN has gained vital andinvaluable experience since itsestablishment. Key learnings aresummarised as follows:

Public hearings are an effectiveway to have face-to-facedialogue between serviceproviders and users' groups.Public hearings make serviceproviders more accountableand service providers are morewilling to reveal information ina joint forum with the CDO,LDO, representatives fromdifferent organisations, users'group and media inattendance. There are manyinstances where the CDO hasdirectly questioned the Chiefof Drinking Water Division onthe Division's activities.Radio programmes are effectivetools for creating publicawareness about water andsanitation rights, budgets,current activities and otherissues.The formation of users' groupsthrough formal processes alonedoes not make themresponsible enough to handleWATSAN schemes. When users'groups are reinforced withdifferent awareness raisingactivities, they understand theirresponsibilities and takeownership of the scheme. Thishelps toward projectsustainability.For the effectiveness andsustainability of projects, it is


Figure 19: District wise achievements through Citizens' action programme

Districts Achievements

Dhading Lobbied CDO, LDO and Chief of Drinking Water Division to allocate funds for the re-operation of theKumpur Drinking Water Scheme and was successful in obtaining NRs.50,000 for this purpose.

Participated in District Council meeting and was able to lobby for water and sanitation budget forSilung VDC, which had not received any budget funds for the last five years.

Successful in resolving the dispute over the Adimghat Bansetar Drinking Water Scheme betweenirrigators and drinking water users, and consequently brought the parties to a consensus to use thescheme for drinking water.

FEDWASUN is a member of the Dhading District Water Resource Committee and Joint EvaluationCommittee, which consists of representatives of the VDC, District Water Supply Division andFEDWASUN district chapter.

Disseminated situation analysis report (10 schemes) and WATSAN budget to media people andconcerned stakeholders. The report found WATSAN services to be minimal and also found that 7VDCs in the district had no budget for water and sanitation.

Conducted a successful radio programme on water and sanitation called Hamro Boli on RadioDhading.

Increased recognition and participation in district level activities.

Makwanpur Reactivation of Makwanpurgadhi drinking water scheme, for which NRs.700,000 (increased fromNRs.575,000) was allocated as a result of FEDWASUN's efforts.

Disseminated situation analysis report (13 schemes) and WATSAN budget to media people andconcerned stakeholders. The report found WATSAN services to be minimal and also found that 13VDCs in the district had no budget for water and sanitation.

Successful in making concerned stakeholders and government bodies commit to providing funds tothe 19 underserved VDCs.


Baglung Stakeholders expressed their commitment to unite and investigate the district's future needs inrelation to water and sanitation; to prioritise sanitation issues; and to allocate budget funds to theVDCs that are presently excluded.

Disseminated reports of situation analysis (10 schemes) and WATSAN budget to media people andconcerned stakeholders. The report found WATSAN services to be minimal and also found that 19VDCs in the district had no budget for water and sanitation.

FEDWASUN is a member of the Baglung District Water Resource Committee.


Pyuthan Placed pressure on concerned stakeholders to re-survey the Dharmpani Integrated Water SupplyScheme and distribute water facilities to local people. As a result of this initiative 280 householdsbenefited.

FEDWASUN is a member of the Joint Monitoring Team, which consists of representatives from theVDC, the District Water Supply Division and FEDWASUN district chapter.

Through the Public Hearing Programme, FEDWASUN was successful in capturing the attention ofrepresentatives from the 7 political parties, the LDO, CDO, Chief of Water Supply Division, NEWAHand the Fund Board, who all committed to avoiding resource duplication and finding ways to ensurethe long-term sustainability of projects.

FEDWASUN is in the process of analysing seven water supply and sanitation schemes in the district.


Baitadi FEDWASUN is a member of the Baitadi District Water Resource Committee

Successful in conducting a situation analysis of 10 schemes and disseminating the actual findingsbased on this research.


Contd...


Districts Achievements

Ilam Successful in lobbying the Chief of Water Supply Division for the maintenance of Maichowk KholaDrinking Water Scheme, through which 180 people are receiving drinking water facilities.


FEDWASUN plans to develop Ilam as a model district in the water and sanitation sector.

Successful in broadcasting a radio programme on water and sanitation from radio Ilam and indisseminating notices and news through local media.

FEDWASUN is a member of Ilam District Water Resource Committee


Baglung Stakeholders expressed their commitment to unite and investigate the district's future needs inrelation to water and sanitation; to prioritise sanitation issues; and to allocate budget funds to theVDCs that are presently excluded.


FEDWASUN is a member of the Baglung District Water Resource Committee.


Pyuthan Placed pressure on concerned stakeholders to re-survey the Dharmpani Integrated Water SupplyScheme and distribute water facilities to local people. As a result of this initiative 280 householdsbenefited.

FEDWASUN is a member of the Joint Monitoring Team, which consists of representatives from theVDC, the District Water Supply Division and FEDWASUN district chapter.

Through the Public Hearing Programme, FEDWASUN was successful in capturing the attention ofrepresentatives from the 7 political parties, the LDO, CDO, Chief of Water Supply Division, NEWAHand the Fund Board, who all committed to avoiding resource duplication and finding ways to ensurethe long-term sustainability of projects.

FEDWASUN is in the process of analysing seven water supply and sanitation schemes in the district.


Baitadi FEDWASUN is a member of the Baitadi District Water Resource Committee

Successful in conducting a situation analysis of 10 schemes and disseminating the actual findingsbased on this research.


Ilam Successful in lobbying the Chief of Water Supply Division for the maintenance of Maichowk KholaDrinking Water Scheme, through which 180 people are receiving drinking water facilities.


FEDWASUN plans to develop Ilam as a model district in the water and sanitation sector.

Successful in broadcasting a radio programme on water and sanitation from radio Ilam and indisseminating notices and news through local media.

FEDWASUN is a member of Ilam District Water Resource Committee



necessary to periodicallyobserve the performance ofwater and sanitation schemes.It is also necessary for donorsto analyse whether or notproject rehabilitation is moreeffective than construction of anew scheme before they investmoney.Constructing toilets in ruralareas is not sufficient toimprove sanitation conditions.It is also necessary to makevillagers aware of the properuse of sanitation facilities. Dueto lack of awareness, there aremany examples where toiletshave been used as rooms tostore logs or grass.

There is a huge gap between water and sanitationcoverage in Nepal. Sanitation services cannot be leftbehind; water and sanitation have to go together.The influencing process at the policy-making level(e.g., National Planning Commission) must be veryeffective with continuous pressure, dialogue andfollow up.The huge participation of people in the lobbyingprocess, such as the Signature Campaign to EndWater Poverty helped to sensitise people, includingchildren, as to water rights.The capacity of women should not be undermined.Given the responsibility and opportunity, womencan be equally as efficient as men.Even though there are many attempts at socialtransformation, caste discrimination is still rootedin our society. Some so-called 'upper class' peoplestill think that they will not be accepted in theirsocial group if they drink water in the house of aso-called 'untouchable'.

Future direction 33

FEDWSUN has been playing a crucial role intransforming WATSAN governance in Nepal. It has alsobecome well recognised by many organisationsnationally and internationally in a very short period oftime. Still, it is in need of organisational strengthening.It can take years to achieve good governance in theWATSAN sector, because different stakeholders andgroups in society need to negotiate how things aredone and how resources are allocated. There are manychallenges ahead, but these challenges will also createopportunities. This is the right time for FEDWASUN toplan its future and convert challenges intoopportunities.

4.1 Challenges

FEDWASUN faces the following challenges:Lack of integrated plan in Nepal to plan, implement,monitor and evaluate water and sanitation schemesThe Government's lack of engagement withFEDWASUNDifficulty resolving disputes due to lack ofimplementation of laws in NepalDifficulty in decentralising the budget in the waterand sanitation sectorLack of access for poor and marginalised people towater and sanitation schemesLack of consensus between users' groups andcontractors as to the smooth construction ofWATSAN schemesLack of solidarity among users' group to resolveWATSAN issuesLack of financial and human resources to operateprogrammes efficiently in all districtsLack of awareness and lack of capacity amongusers' groups in relation to understanding recent

4 Future directionnational and internationalWATSAN issues, changing legalprovisions and red bookanalysisNeed to expand FEDWASUN'schapters to remote anddisadvantaged areas to securewater and sanitation rights

4.2 Opportunities

FEDWASUN is in a strong positionto:

Be a leading organisation in theprovision of sustainabledevelopment in the water andsanitation sector in NepalAdvocate for deprived groupsMediate between differentstakeholders and serviceprovidesFacilitate the planning processby revealing ground realitiesLobby for user friendly policies,practical plans and programmesFacilitate an end to theduplication of work by initiatingdialogueCommunicate to the world therealities and conditions of waterand sanitation issues in NepalCreate networks with nationaland international organisationsto bring more WATSAN schemesto communities


4.3 Future strategy

To realise its vision, mission andgoal, FEDWASUN will:

Coordinate with differentorganisations to workeffectively in policy-making,planning, implementation,monitoring and evaluation ofWATSAN schemesPromote good governance inthe WATSAN sector andawareness raising throughnetworking and inter-organisational linkagesPublicise the Federation's goal,objectives and achievements,and work in coordination withother organisationsAdvocate for users' groups'issues and problems byrepresenting at the national andinternational level

Critically review its institutional developmentprocess, formulate clear policies and action plans,and implement them accordinglyGive priority to conducting situation analyses,awareness raising and advocacy in the water andsanitation sectorAnalyse its achievements and communicate itssuccess stories through the mediaWork towards the expansion of its district chaptersto all districts of Nepal and the extension ofassistance in helping to form more users' groupsDevelop Dhading as a model district for Citizens'Action and replicate its good practices in otherdistrictsFocus on implementing the people's agenda, asdeclared through the Citizens' Action process in thepastConduct different programmes, directly through thecentral Federation, and also through the districtbranches and users' groups, as well as strengtheninstitutional development, management, advocacyand good governance

WaterAid/Anita Pradhan

Published on

December 2008

Copy of the report can be downloaded from www.wateraid.org/nepal

Photo: Dhading: Citizens'action programme modeldistrict

Advocating for waterand sanitation for alland forever

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Federation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andFederation of Drinking Water andSanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Sanitation Users Nepal (FEDWASUN)Thapathali, Kathmandu, NepalGPO Box: 19980, Kathmandu, NepalTelephone: + 977 1 4249720Fax: + 977 1 4245739Email: [email protected]

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