Gender portrayal of water, sanitation, and hygiene security in Northwest Ethiopia

Development initiatives should involve and benefit both men and women. Ensuring gender equality is critical to realize the Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation (Goal 6). However, evidence on gender-responsive water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) security at the household level remains limited in low-income countries, including Ethiopia. This study examined the gender dimension of water, sanitation and hygiene security in the South Gondar zone, using a mixed research approach. Quantitative data were collected from 385 households through structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests, whereas qualitative data were analyzed thematically and through direct quotation. The findings revealed significant gender differences in access to and control over WASH resources. Women had significantly less access to clean water than men (χ 2 = 19.52, p < 0.001) and were more likely to travel a distance to collect water (χ 2 = 13.99, p = 0.001). Women were also primarily responsible for household water collection, sanitation, and hygiene care, while remaining underrepresented in WASH governance and decision-making. In addition, access to gender-responsive sanitation, menstrual hygiene facilities, and violence prevention mechanisms was inadequate. In conclusion, WASH insecurity in the study area was driven not only by infrastructural deficits but also by persistent gender inequality. Expanding household-level gender-responsive water, sanitation, and menstrual interventions, increasing women's participation in WASH governance, expanding gender-sensitive capacity-building programs, and integrating gender-sensitive safety measures into WASH infrastructural planning are essential to achieving equitable and sustainable WASH services.