Harare – Transparency International Zimbabwe (TI Z) has called for enhanced transparency, accountability and investment in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services as Zimbabwe joined the rest of the continent in commemorating the Day of the African Child on 16 June 2026.

This year’s commemoration is being held under the theme: “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa,” which highlights the urgent need to guarantee every child’s right to safe water and proper sanitation as a foundation for health, dignity and development.

In a statement, TI Z noted that many children across Zimbabwe continue to face significant challenges in accessing reliable water sources and adequate sanitation facilities. The organisation said both urban and rural communities are affected by recurring water shortages, ageing infrastructure, climate-induced droughts and insufficient investment in essential services.

Schools and health facilities, in particular, were identified as being under strain due to inconsistent water supply and inadequate hygiene infrastructure, a situation TI Z says is negatively affecting children’s health, school attendance and learning outcomes.

The organisation also raised concern over governance challenges in the sector, stating that corruption risks and weak accountability mechanisms continue to undermine service delivery. It cited procurement irregularities, lack of transparency in infrastructure development and limited citizen participation as key issues contributing to delays and poor-quality public projects.

TI Z stressed that access to safe and clean water is a constitutional right under Section 77(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, while Section 81 guarantees children the right to healthcare and protection necessary for their well-being. The organisation said these provisions place an obligation on public institutions to ensure transparent and efficient management of resources allocated to WASH services.

Linking this year’s theme to broader development goals, TI Z said progress on Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation) cannot be achieved without strong institutions, accountability and inclusive governance as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 16.

The organisation called on Government and local authorities to strengthen transparency in resource allocation, promote open and competitive procurement processes, increase investment in resilient WASH systems—especially in underserved areas—and enhance citizen participation in monitoring public service delivery.

TI Z concluded that combating corruption and improving accountability in the management of public resources is essential to removing barriers to essential services and securing a healthier, more dignified future for Zimbabwe’s children.