Bangladesh's water and sanitation crisis

Bangladesh has one of the fastest growing economies in South Asia, however its economic growth has not benefited all areas of the country equally. Out of its population of 171 million people, 70 million people (40% of the population) lack access to safe water, and 118 million people (69%) lack access to a safe toilet.

Bangladesh is a global leader when it comes to microfinance and is known as the birthplace of this innovative financial model. Since the 1970s, vibrant and sustained growth in the microfinance sector has resulted in enormous impact on financial inclusion of those living in poverty, particularly women.

Bangladesh’s high need for water and sanitation improvements, along with its healthy microfinance sector and government support, make it an ideal market for Water.org’s financial solutions to the water crisis.

  • Stories of Impact

    She pours love and safe water

    Moms pour their hearts and lives into protecting and providing for their growing children. And right now, millions of moms around the world long to pour safe water for them, too. Every day these moms face a personal struggle as they don’t have access to the safe water and toilets needed at home to raise their loved ones in health and safety. Hossne was one of these moms.

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  • Stories of Impact

    Parul's family is healthy and safe

    At the intersection of the water crisis and the sanitation crisis are often stories of severe illness. The consequences of using unsafe water can hardly be managed without a toilet at home. This is why increased access to improved safe water and sanitation solutions for families living in poverty, like Parul’s, is critical.

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  • Stories of Impact

    Lessons learned, lessons taught

    As a mother, Nadia wanted more for her children. She wanted a life opposite of the one dealt her by the global water crisis. She wanted safe water and a toilet at home. Read more about how a small loan helped change Nadia's family's lives and inspired a valuable lesson.

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Bangladesh impact statistics

People reached 8.6 million

The number of people who now have access to safe water or sanitation and the health and opportunity they bring.

Capital mobilized (USD) $613 million

Our partners mobilize funds from capital markets to provide water and sanitation loans.

Loans disbursed 1.8 million

Our local partners make loans to people in need for life-changing safe water and sanitation solutions.

Number of active partners 9

We work with financial institutions, service providers, international agencies, and governments to make an impact.

Repayment rate 99%

Every repaid loan means another family in need can get affordable access to safe water at home.

Average loan size (USD) $337

Small loans can help make a big difference by providing long-term solutions for families in need around the world.

Percent of women borrowers 98%

Women are primarily responsible for household water collection and are solving the water crisis for their families.

Households living under $6.85/day 94%

We are committed to helping people living in poverty get access to safe water and sanitation solutions at home.

To help us end the water crisis in Bangladesh, donate today.

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