An interesting example to draw lessons from was given by Jacinta Nekesa of SNV-Uganda during Day 2 of IRC’s 2010 Symposium. With the help of SNV, five district-based associations of hand pump mechanics have been created in Uganda.
Before the Assocation's existence, it was obvious that local citizens were not getting proper access to services, the mechanics did not have access to proper tools, nor did the local government have properly trained mechanics on their payroll. In recognising these intertwined difficulties, district based associations (registered as private companies) were created. The Association of Hand Pump Mechanics regulates the prices and functions of the members (service providers) to help prevent monopolies and price collusion.
In doing so, the accountability of services has improved. The information flow between mechanics, the government, and community members is more fluid. Community members are able to voice their concerns. The learning and sharing of knowledge between mechanics is also supported by the help of technologies such as mobile phones.
It was identified that such a system works because all actors involved keep the lines of communication open. All parties ask questions, and remain interested in the process. Technology has also provided a space for these actors to interact, allowing for horizontal communication.
But in the end an important question needs to be addressed: What is the cost of maintaining such an association, and is it sustainable?
Dear Angelica,
ReplyDeleteThis is to thank IRC for the opportunity granted to SNV to share this field experience with other practioners, experts and donors in the WASH sector. The Symposium provided an opportunity to receive feedback from the participants on how to improve our work with local private service providers. Like you have rightly pointed out, there is need for us to look into the costs of maintaining these hand pump mechanics associations and whether this is sustainable. This will be the next step towards improving our approach. I did not only participate in the Symposium by presenting a paper, but I was also able to learn from others e.g. regarding the life-cycle costs of sustainable WASH service provision; issues about financing and above all, how to strengthen governance and ensure accountability for the financial resources allocated to the sector at all levels. I will share these insights with colleagues within the WASH sector in SNV and with the partners and clients with whom we work and we see how to incorporate the lessons learnt into our work.
For more information about our work in WASH, please visit the website below.
Kind regards,
Jacinta Nekesa,
WASH Advisor,
SNV/Netherlands Development Organization.
http://www.snvworld.org/en/ourwork/Pages/waterandsan.aspx
Dear Jacinta Nekesa,
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for your participation and very interesting presentation, in addition to everyone else who contributed during the Symposium.
We look forward to hearing more about your work, and your future insights about the costs and sustainability of your approach regarding the Associations.
Best regards,
Angelica de Jesus
Project Officer- Writer, IRC