Agenda for change systems strengthening research

Case study of the WaterSHED programme, which aimed to strengthen water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) systems in Cambodia.

It focuses on WaterSHED's efforts to promote sanitation marketing and leadership development through the Civic Champions programme. The study evaluates how these initiatives led to systemic changes, including improved sanitation coverage and leadership skills among commune leaders.

The report also assesses the sustainability, scale and impact of these changes, highlighting WaterSHED's strategy of empowering local actors to drive long-term improvements in sanitation services.

Intervention description

WaterSHED focused on improving two key system factors: targeting a better and more affordable latrine package and improving information accessibility for rural consumers about sanitation benefits.

They worked with private sanitation enterprises to develop an affordable latrine package, provided technical and business management training, and trained local leaders as sales agents. The latrine package included a ceramic pan, PVC connector pipe, concrete rings and a pit lid, sold as a single package for about USD $43.

Enterprises were supported with market research and management skills to improve their products and services. These interventions led to enterprises producing and selling the latrine core package and contracting sales agents to promote their products.    

Evidence methodology

The methodology involved qualitative and quantitative assessments based on existing research and evaluations of WaterSHED's interventions. Data was collected through surveys, focus groups and evaluations conducted by WaterSHED and external researchers.

The analysis included assessing behaviour and performance changes, the depth, scale and sustainability of these changes, and the link between programme activities and observed outcomes.