The Government of Switzerland and its implementing partner Equidev are delighted to announce the successful completion of its transformative two-year initiative, “Building Knowledge and Awareness on Sustainable Sanitation Solutions.” Funded by the Government of Switzerland in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of Tajikistan, the project has brought hope, health, and progress to thousands in Hisor, Vahdat, Ayni, Rudaki, and Fayzobod districts.
Meeting urgent need with sustainable solutions
For many in rural Tajikistan, aging sewage systems and unsafe water have long posed serious health risks. Equidev stepped in with an innovative solution: Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS). These systems don’t just clean wastewater—they create opportunities. By treating wastewater locally, DEWATS ensures water is safe to return to the environment and even be reused in agriculture, turning a problem into a resource.
Through this project, five DEWATS facilities were built and rigorously tested. The results? Clean water, healthier communities, and a clear path for scaling these solutions to other underserved areas.
Empowering People, Not Just Systems
Beyond technology, this project focused on people: Over 150 local leaders, government officials, and community partners were trained to understand and champion DEWATS. Meanwhile, 80 health workers learned practical hygiene and sanitation skills, spreading knowledge that’s improving daily life in homes, schools, and hospitals.
A New Chapter in Education
The project also set its sights on the next generation. Starting January 2025, a new DEWATS course will debut at Tajik Technical University (TTU), giving future engineers the tools to design and implement sustainable sanitation systems nationwide. To prepare for this, ten professors of the University received hands-on training, ensuring they’re ready to inspire and educate tomorrow’s problem-solvers.
Healthier Hospitals, Happier Communities
One of the most impactful results of this project is the transformation at Miskinobod Rural District Hospital in Fayzobod. A new DEWATS facility there now treats over 15 cubic meters of wastewater daily, creating a cleaner, safer environment for patients and staff alike. Hospital workers have been trained to maintain the system, ensuring its benefits endure.
Salome Steib, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan highlighted: “By investing in innovative sanitation solutions, Switzerland helps create a healthier, more resilient environment for our current population leaving no one behind and our future generations. The key to success is the sustainability of this project. It’s now up to the local government and community to ensure it lasts, providing safe drinking water and proper sanitation for all. Together, we can create lasting change and secure this vital resource for future generations”
