Contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals: knowledge on water, sanitation and health risk in Cotonou and Lomé cities

Abstract

The paper explores how a project implemented in the framework of the LIRA2030 Africa programme is contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) on water, sanitation and health in the West African coastal cities of Cotonou (Benin) and Lomé (Togo). Based on co-produced knowledge on water, sanitation and health risks, collected through a transdisciplinary approach, we investigated socio-ecological sanitation and the applicability of an Ecohealth model to support SDGs 3, 6 and 11. According to our findings, the basis for the achievement of SDGs in these cities lies in addressing bad sanitation and hygiene related to a linear urban metabolism, poor groundwater quality and the occurrence of health risks (malaria, gastroenteritis, diarrheal). In this regard, the projects contributed by developing socioecological sanitation facilities for groundwater quality improvement and protection and for health risk reduction. An Ecohealth model was also developed to help improve and maintain the quality of groundwater in the study cities to promote healthy living and for sustainability. Social impacts of the SDG achievement could really help in sustainable development and the well-being in the coastal West African cities.