Mapping the way

From high-tech maps, like Google Earth, to low-tech solutions like this chalk drawing WaterAid utilises different mapping techniques.

Credit: WaterAid / Juthika Howlader

Nearly one billion people live without safe water and over 2.5 billion don't have sanitation. But how do we know who these people are and ensure that we reach those who are most in need? Maps hold the answers.

In 2002 WaterAid began an innovative project in Malawi. Our staff there had seen that while some communities were receiving support, others, who were equally or more in need, were receiving none.

The problem they realised was the lack of clear data showing where water points existed and which ones were actually working. And so with GPS in hand a team set out to map the water points in their district.

The initial pilot project was so successful that it grew across the country. Eventually all of the districts in Malawi had been mapped meaning any new interventions or any repair work could be targeted and coordinated appropriately.

After learning of the work in Malawi, teams from across WaterAid began similar mapping exercises and work is now ongoing with partner organisations across seven African countries.

Elsewhere WaterAid uses maps in different ways. In India maps have been used to highlight issues of water quality, and in Pakistan maps made of informal urban this information to negotiate with city water and sewage providers to allow residents legal connections for the first time.

Equally important are community maps made by the communities we work with. At the start of our projects communities come together and create maps of their area, and then use these to highlight issues and concerns and also plan where latrines and water points should be constructed.