At the heart of sustainable change lies the passion and drive of young people. Recently, the Youth WASH Ambassador Club (YWAC) — a dynamic group of young changemakers dedicated to championing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives in their communities — joined us for an insightful field activity under the FSM Action Research Project.
During the visit, YWAC members observed the PuPu Pump in action as it emptied a pit in the Ngombe compound of Lusaka, Zambia. This practical demonstration gave them firsthand insight into how innovative faecal sludge management solutions can improve sanitation services in urban communities.
Their enthusiasm was inspiring. With genuine curiosity and thoughtful questions, YWAC showed a clear commitment to driving innovative approaches that could transform service provision in the sanitation sector. Their presence reinforced a vital truth: youth engagement is not just beneficial — it is essential for lasting change.
The FSM Action Research Project is dedicated to testing and evaluating various faecal sludge management technologies, assessing them for efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. By involving diverse stakeholders — from technical experts to the next generation of leaders — the project is building a more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking approach to achieving safe sanitation for all.
In moments like these, we see the power of collaboration between innovation, research, and youth advocacy. The future of sanitation is brighter when young people take the lead
