The #EUStandsWithSalone WASH Project Endline Evaluation was conducted to assess the impact and effectiveness of the WASH interventions implemented by Inter Aide in Bombali and Karene districts from June 2019 to December 2023. The evaluation, completed in March 2024, focused on evaluating the project’s achievements in improving water supply, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data, including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and community surveys to measure the success of the interventions.
Key findings from the evaluation show that the project successfully improved access to safe water, with 92% of communities in Bombali and 88% in Karene reporting functional water points. The project also significantly enhanced sanitation practices, with both districts achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. However, challenges related to the availability of spare parts for water pumps and chlorine for household water treatment were noted, particularly in Karene, where 56% of communities lacked access to spare parts. Despite these challenges, the evaluation found that the project’s community-driven approach and partnerships with local authorities were effective in promoting sustainable WASH practices.
The evaluation concluded that the #EUStandsWithSalone WASH Project substantially improved WASH services in rural communities. It recommended scaling up successful strategies, particularly in the areas of water quality and hygiene promotion, while addressing logistical challenges such as spare part availability and the need for further capacity building at the community level. These findings will inform future WASH interventions in Sierra Leone and help guide policy decisions towards achieving universal access to safe water and sanitation by 2030.