2nd African WinS International Learning Exchange Outcome Document

The 2nd African Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Schools (WinS) International Learning Exchange (ILE) was convened from May 7 to 10, 2024, in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Co-organized by GIZ and UNICEF, and hosted by the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training of Zanzibar, this event brought together government representatives from 18 African nations, their key WASH in Schools partners—including NGOs and development organizations—and international topic experts.

The 2nd WinS African ILE built on the foundations laid during the 1st WinS African ILE in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023, and focused on critical updates and strategic advancements in the WinS sector.

Delegates noted a shift towards a more integrated and holistic perspective of WinS, highlighting how elements like Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH), climate resilience, and economic factors such as Toilet Loss are embedded in WinS programming, also addressing comprehensive capacity development of institutions and actors to strengthen the entire WinS sector. Embracing a systemic approach acknowledges that while each component —from engineering to policy, and from management to financing— plays a crucial role in achieving universal WASH in Schools, no single aspect can tackle the challenges independently.