In the Sanitation Economy: Laying the Foundations for Gender Equality

Building sanitation economies means creating jobs, livelihoods and opportunities for all, especially women. In Uganda, Harriet Angwec’s incredible journey is testament to the many foundations Next Generation Sanitation can help provide and the opportunities it unlocks for women in sanitation, traditionally seen as a male-dominated sector. 

In Uganda, the sanitation economy could generate USD 2.7 billion in economic gains, livelihoods, opportunities including for women by 2030 once universal access is achieved. Unlocking this potential has been the focus of the Government of Uganda’s partnership with the UN’s Sanitation and Hygiene Fund (SHF) which consists of identifying key areas of public reform needed, catalyzing finance and leveraging partnerships to unlock financing and develop a thriving sanitation economy and menstrual health market in the country. Gender has been an important consideration of SHF’s Next Generation Sanitation  approach in terms of both the roles and impacts women can have in the transformation.

Women as Drivers of the Sanitation Economy

“Women have long been the custodians of family health and well-being, but they are also impactful change-makers. Through the sanitation economy, and the associated menstrual health market, we are opening up greater opportunities for the social and economic inclusion of women, to realize their full potential and help build societies and economies where everyone thrives,” said Dr Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Uganda. 

Harriet Angwec, a 34-year-old resident of Akena B in Ayara, Okwerodot, Kole District, Uganda is testament to this potential. As a woman in a field dominated by men, Harriet has carved a niche for herself in the construction of sanitation facilities, an essential but often overlooked aspect of public health. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by masonry to becoming a community sanitation mason and advocate has been one of passion, persistence, and determination.

From a Childhood Interest to a Source of Income

Harriet’s love for masonry began in her childhood. Watching masons at work fascinated her, and after completing her craft course in bricklaying and concrete practice in 2009, she began building houses in her community and nearby villages. However, her job and life took a turn when she was nominated for training under the SHF project implemented by Water for People Uganda as part of efforts to strengthen the sanitation supply chain in Uganda. 

Her business quickly became more than just a source of income for her and her family. Through her work, Harriet has been able to contribute to improving household sanitation, directly reducing the risk of disease in her community. This sense of purpose fuels her passion for what she does.

“Improving sanitation isn’t just about building toilets,” says Harriet. “It’s about creating a healthier community and ensuring that families have access to facilities that promote hygiene.”

Despite the rewarding nature of her work, Harriet’s journey has not been without its challenges. Many people in the community doubted her ability as a woman to do quality masonry work. However, with time and persistent effort, she proved her skills, and she is sought after by various companies and individuals today. “Being a woman in masonry, especially in sanitation construction, comes with its challenges. Many people don’t believe that women can do this kind of work, but I’ve shown that I’m just as capable as any man,”she adds.

A Foundation for the Future

Looking ahead, Harriet is already planning to diversify her income by investing in livestock farming, using the profits from her construction work. She sees this as a way to secure financial stability for her family while continuing to meet the sanitation needs of her community.

Harriet’s story of resilience and breaking barriers is but an example of the change that is possible when women unlock new opportunities including in sectors like sanitation seen as traditionally male-dominated. Through the SHF grant and our broader engagement in Uganda and beyond, we are witnessing the impact women can drive as leaders in sanitation. From champions of household and community sanitation to laying the ground for Next Generation Sanitation solutions, as masons, business owners, employees and entrepreneurs, women are playing an increasingly active role in sanitation economies. This is more than building facilities or supply chains; they are building a legacy, the foundation of a sustainable, inclusive and healthy future for all.