In June 2010, the Nepal WASH Coalition launched a WASH Radio Campaign aimed principally at those living in the rural hills and Tarai region of Nepal. Radio is the most widely accessed media in the region, and provides the perfect medium to share messages related to water, sanitation and hygiene.
A total of five community radio stations aired weekly locally adapted WASH radio episodes in selected districts with low water and sanitation coverage for half a year. Each programme included a stimulating drama, important flash news on WASH, interviews with members of the public, catchy jingles, a quiz of the day, and either an analytic feature or an interactive discussion panel.
The campaign especially sought to initiate discussion among decision-makers (parliamentarians, sector professionals and service providers) and community representatives on WASH issues, mainly on the public’s right to water and sanitation, budget allocation, equitable disbursement and use of sanitation at the local level. The discussions were often held in a public forum, with the goal of sharing best practices, advocating for policy change, promoting sustainable hygiene, and increasing ownership and accountability of delivery.
Some WASH broadcasts resulted in immediate commitments and actions: organizations came forward to conduct a WASH awareness programme for Musahars (marginalized community); a local political leader in Siraha committed to pushing for the right to water and sanitation during a radio interview; local level organizations provided water purification tablets; and district health offices carried out health checkups in flood affected areas after the problems related to poor WASH and the diarrhoea incidences had been reported.
Simply put, a terrific mix of radio formats, manifold topics and crucial people in front of the microphone were the formula for success. WASH became a popular and inspiring topic at the same time. Whereas some of the programmes were broadcast more frequently and longer than planned, some others stood out due to brilliant locally produced poetry and songs!
