Special WWD issue Source Weekly

IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre
Global/Internet, 22 Mar 06

Source Weekly 9-10

IRC published a special World Water Day issue on World Water Day. Here is a selection.

- World Water Day 2006: water – mother of all cultures, many events focus on children

At the official World Water Day 2006 celebration in Mexico City, Mexico, the documentary film ‘Water – Mother of All Cultures’ is being shown, followed by the official presentation of the 2nd United Nations World Water Development Report. Many of the other WWD events around the world are giving special attention is given to children.

- Southern Africa: local actions vital as region marks World Water Day

South Africa has designated the period between 21 and 27 March as its National Water Week during which a campaign will be carried out to reiterate the value of water, the need for sustainable water management and the role water plays in eradicating poverty and under-development.

- Bangladesh: WWD events throughout the country

The World Water Day 2006 events in Bangladesh include a national seminar, cultural programme on key water and sanitation issues, a TV talk-show, and publication and distribution of poster, leaflets, and brochures.

- India, Tamil Nadu: WWD action by 25,000 women in 411 villages

More than 25,000 women in rural Tamil Nadu will campaign for water and sanitation in their villages on the occasion of World Water Day 2006. "This event will be the largest congregation of women in the world who care for water and sanitation", Geetha Jegannathan of Gramalaya says.

- Nepal: community monitors Bagmati river

The Environment and Public Health Organisation (ENPHO) is organising a community level water quality monitoring in Bagmati river of Kathmandu on the occasion of World Water Day 2006.

- UK: reflect for a minute on the 1.1 billion without safe water, WaterAid

On World Water Day 2006, WaterAid is encouraging the public to take a minute to consider the 1.1 billion people who do not have access to clean, safe water.

- USA: World Water Day “Walk for Water” in 11 cities

In 2006, Ethos Water and Starbucks Coffee Company, in collaboration with NGOs, have started a multi-year effort to promote World Water Day in the United States. Activities include a “Walk for Water” in 11 U.S. cities on 22 March 2006.

Contact: Dick de Jong