Who would have thought someone would be so happy to receive a water bill! But for this member of the Mirpur community it's a very significant occasion.
In 2015, World Vision Bangladesh began partnering with motivated groups within slum communities on how to communicate with the government and the Dhaka Water Supply and Sewage Authority (DWASA) in order to advocate for legal water connection. Eventually these groups were successful, with 43 legal water connections approved. Water meters were also installed, with each household contributing to pay the group's water bill. Through our water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) program a healthier life is now available for the many families and young children of 12 slums. These residents have also benefited from developing the skills required for local advocacy and social accountability - that they use again when lobbying for change. No wonder a water bill is such a great reason to smile.