Context-specific validation and introduction of technologies for sustainable WASH services

Using the most suitable technology is a key pillar to achieve sustainable WASH service delivery. Too often these services fail because chosen technologies do not sufficiently fit in the institutional, economic/financial, social, environmental and technical context. The result is low functionality of the WASH technologies. The WASHTech project in Uganda, Ghana and Burkina Faso did technology reviews, conducted action-research and developed a context-specific tool to validate potential WASH technologies, Technology Applicability Framework. And the project developed Technology Introduction Process Guide. These processes involve participation of various sector stakeholders including the technology producers. These tools and processes have a promise to significantly contribute to a more systematic technology approval and introduction process, which would lead to better uptake of validated WASH technologies contributing to more sustainable services.