WHO: Africa accounts for 67% of under-five deaths linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation

Africa accounted for the largest share of global deaths among children under five linked to unsafe drinking water, inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene practices in 2019, according to new data.

Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Observatory show that the continent recorded 67 per cent of all under-five deaths worldwide attributed to unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

The figures point to the public health challenges facing African countries, particularly in communities where millions of households still lack reliable access to clean drinking water, proper toilets and essential hygiene facilities.

West Africa recorded the highest number of deaths, with about 136,000 children under five dying from conditions linked to inadequate WASH services.

East Africa was the second most affected subregion with 131,000 deaths. Central Africa recorded 53,000 deaths, while Southern Africa accounted for 45,000. North Africa had the lowest number among the five African subregions, with 25,000 deaths.

Poor sanitation and contaminated water expose young children to preventable infections and diseases, particularly diarrhoeal illnesses, which can become life-threatening among children with limited access to timely medical care.

Public health experts point to investment in clean water infrastructure, household sanitation, proper waste management and public health education as key to reducing deaths. Expanding access to safe drinking water and hygienic sanitation facilities, particularly in underserved communities, remains essential in protecting young children.