In this working paper we highlight ways in which mapping approaches can help Ethiopia achieve the
Universal Access Plan for water supply and strengthen links between water and sanitation service
delivery and pro-poor growth. The paper is based on experiences of using mapping approaches as
part of the RiPPLE (Research-inspired Policy and Practice Learning in Ethiopia and the Nile Region)
project, a five year Research Programme Consortium that aims to meet the country’s water supply
and sanitation challenges by supporting evidence-based learning in the sector. Our main premise is
that:
The regular collection, organisation and use of spatial data on water availability, access,demand and
use at all levels makes for more effective, sustainable, transparent and accountable WASH. Mapping
is a useful approach for organising and using this spatial information for planning, analysis, advocacy,
implementation and monitoring of WASH services.
The first part of the paper sets out a conceptual framework for mapping. Mapping is more than just
providing colourful pictures to brighten reports and offices – it is about collecting and using spatial
data and information to provide the best available evidence to support decisions at all stages in
projects and programmes. Within Ethiopia, there is growing evidence that maps can be an important
part of the process of turning raw data into useful information and practical knowledge.
There is great diversity in the types of maps and mapping approaches that can help to improve
WASH. The main different uses for maps are: data analysis (particularly interdisciplinary analysis);
advocacy; planning; implementation and monitoring. For a map to be effective, the use to which the
map is to be put must be clear before making the map. Maps for different uses may require different
data, combined in different ways, and displayed at different scales. Within this working paper we
describe various examples from Ethiopia (mostly developed as part of RiPPLE) where maps have
been used for each of these five purposes.
Despite the obvious benefits of using maps within the WASH sector in Ethiopia, maps are not widely
used. Perhaps the main reason is uncertainty about how maps can be used to inform decisions, what
type of map is fit for purpose, and the process of gathering information to develop maps. We trust
that the framework developed in this paper helps to bring clarity about when maps can be of
assistance, and how to develop fit for purpose approaches. As discussed, maps are only part of the
process of turning data into knowledge or even wisdom. They form the useful step of turning data
into more readily interpreted information. However, to truly increase knowledge, they must be used.
The second part of the paper highlights the practical challenges that exist when using mapping to
support decision making in the WASH sector. In particular the challenges of data availability, data
accessibility, poor data management and the capacity required to make maps and manage data.
There is a great appetite for mapping in Ethiopia, but appropriate capacity must first be built before
maps can be used routinely and widely by different WASH stakeholders. .
The paper concludes by summarising the steps needed to integrate mapping in a WASH programme:
1. Decide whether a map is the best tool for the job, and whether the purpose is planning,
advocacy, implementation, analysis or monitoring.
2. Carry out a careful analysis of data requirements and whether the data are available, or need to
be collected from the field. Identify who will be involved in the production and use of the map; who will be developing the
map (often this will mean building the GIS); who will be deep users of the map (able to
manipulate or add data to the map or GIS); who will be shallow users (able to use and interpret
the data); and who will be collecting and generating the data on which the map will be used.
4. Collect data wisely. Careful planning of data collection activities – e.g. water scheme surveys –
will ensure the most useful data is collected.
5. Facilitate communication between users, developers and data collectors. All should be clear on
the purpose of mapping and their role in the process
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