Development of Resource Centre Networks
Case studies on Resource Centre Network development and strengthening of capacities.
WASH-RCNN supports learning, sharing and collaboration in Nepal
28 Feb 11
Information management and proper mechanisms for linking the grassroots to the policy making level in Nepal are lacking. However, key WASH sector stakeholders including government agree that sharing about WASH policies, technological options and good practices among stakeholders is essential for effective planning to achieve the targets of Sanitation and Water for All. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene-Resource Centre Network Nepal (WASH-RCNN) has been working to improve information sharing, collaboration and learning in the sector.
The network brings together information/knowledge and has created regular learning and sharing platforms at central and decentralized levels. With others, such as the Department of Water Supply and Sewerage, UNICEF, WHO, SNV Nepal, the network is working to establish decentralised WASH resource centres. Recently, the Director General of the Department of Water Supply and Sewerage advocated for WASH Resource Centres in all administrative regions of Nepal.
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene-Resource Centre Network Nepal (WASH-RCNN) consolidates information and knowledge and has created regular learning and sharing platforms for sector stakeholders both at central and decentralized levels. The WASH-RCNN plans to continue using its capacity and potential to engage in knowledge sharing activities and produce information products. Partnership with media professionals will also be useful in highlighting gaps and challenges in the sector and reaching a wider audience.
To read regular updates about activities of the WASH-RCNN and results so far, visit their website: http://www.nepal.watsan.net
WASH Sector Learning article by R Bastola 201102.pdf (709.8 kB)
Resource centre networks on the move in Francophone West Africa
19 May 09
Resource centre networks in Benin and Burkina Faso are in the process of developing their first information products and services.
Honduran Resource Centre for Knowledge and Information, CHRECIAS
08 Apr 09
By 2004, the Water and Sanitation Network of Honduras, (RASHON from its initials in Spanish), had become an important organisation within the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector. Its work has been based on three strategic lines: 1) advocacy 2) institutional strengthening and 3) dissemination of successful experiences of the WASH sector. On the basis of the experiences with these strategies the Honduran Resource Centre for Knowledge and Information in the Water and Sanitation sector, CHRECIAS, was established in 2005.
Establishment and development of a Resource Centre Network in Ghana
08 Apr 09
The vision behind developing a resource centre network (RCN) in Ghana was that of a dynamic knowledge-driven network of organisations providing improved pro-poor WASH services. The RCN was to become the lead sector knowledge driver, facilitating the learning process and advocating for knowledge sharing within all sector organisations.
Resource Centre Development process within CREPA Network: experiences in six countries
08 Apr 09
The Regional Centre for Water supply and Sanitation (CREPA) took the decision to start the RCD process in the WASH sector in West and Central Africa. The process started in 2002 with six countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo) and is expected to spread to the whole CREPA network (17 French speaking countries in West and Central Africa).
Learning alliances for better practice and policy in Uganda
08 Apr 09
Uganda is a frontrunner in WASH sector reforms in East Africa, but faces problems around household and school sanitation and hygiene. Previously, there was no learning mechanism on hygiene and sanitation at district level and limited trickling down of knowledge from the international and national level towards communities. To address this situation, SNV, IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre and NETWAS Uganda have partnered to facilitate a “Learning Alliance” at district level, by which sector stakeholders share experiences and agree on actions to improve sector efficiency and performance.
Lessons from Resource Centre Network Nepal
08 Apr 09
Resource Centre Network Nepal (RCNN), a loose network of six national and international NGOs, was established in 2003 to facilitate knowledge sharing through information collection and dissemination and to promote and improve water supply and sanitation services in Nepal. Through a short case study on the development of an information product (Information leaflet and poster on tube well spare parts) insight is given into the process of setting up a successful product within the RCNN.
