Deadline: 27-Jul-2025
UNICEF Ecuador is seeking new partnerships to support the implementation of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects. These efforts aim to reduce gaps in access to basic services, strengthen community resilience, and improve public health and hygiene conditions in both development and emergency contexts.
The organization is calling on qualified implementing partners to assist in improving WASH infrastructure. This includes rehabilitating safe water systems at the community level and enhancing facilities to be climate-resilient, gender-sensitive, and accessible. There is also an emphasis on using nature-based and renewable energy solutions such as rainwater harvesting and solar-powered water systems in critical child services.
Capacity building is another priority area. Partners will be expected to provide training and technical support to local water service providers, health center staff, educators, and community leaders. The goal is to improve preventive maintenance, service continuity, emergency response, and climate risk management. Additionally, organizations should promote governance practices that are sustainable, rights-based, and equitable.
Behavior change strategies are also central to UNICEF’s plan. Projects should include culturally appropriate campaigns that promote hygiene and sanitation practices, including handwashing and safe water usage. These activities will primarily target schools, health centers, and vulnerable communities.
The initiative focuses on key areas in Ecuador, particularly the provinces of Los Rios and Esmeraldas. UNICEF aims to build a registry of qualified organizations with technical, territorial, and organizational capacity in WASH-related work. These partnerships will help scale future interventions that enhance service quality and infrastructure resilience.
Through this process, UNICEF expects measurable improvements in WASH services, behavior change at the community level, and stronger local governance. Local actors like water boards and community committees will receive training in administration, planning, and emergency response. The broader goal is to ensure that children grow up in safer, cleaner, and more equitable environments.
Eligible organizations include national and international NGOs, academic institutions, community-based groups, and civil society organizations with experience in WASH implementation and community mobilization. Selected partners will play a key role in advancing UNICEF’s mission for children in Ecuador.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.