Summary of findings from nutrition and WASH plans

Through an analysis of nutrition and WASH plans and policies in 13 countries, WaterAid and SHARE's 'The missing ingredients' report highlights why WASH is essential for nutrition, identifying gaps and ways of working – and where and how improvements must be made.

Comprehensive national nutrition plans are a critical first step on the road to ending malnutrition by 2030. To succeed, these plans must address the underlying causes of malnutrition head on. Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) are three of the essential ingredients for success.

Integrated plans must be supported by sufficient financing, effective coordination, timely tracking of results, and stronger institutions.

This report highlights why WASH is essential for nutrition. Through an analysis of nutrition and WASH plans and policies in 13 countries, gaps and ways of working are identified. 

Rather than just making demands for more integration, the research highlights where this is already being done well at policy level and where and how improvements must be made.