Enhancing Empowerment of Conflict-Affected Communities in Kayah State by Delivering Essential WASH Services for a Future of Dignity ltpgtThe armed conflict between the Tatmadaw and Karenni People's Defense Force in Kayah State has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, leading to major displacement, violence, and loss of livelihoods. Consequently, the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) situation in the region has dramatically deteriorated. Among the townships most affected by the conflict, Demoso in Kayah State stands out. The population in this area faces numerous obstacles in accessing safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. The conflict has caused extensive damage to the existing WASH infrastructure, resulting in an upsurge of waterborne diseases and poor hygiene practices.ltbrgtAccording to a report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as of August 2021, over 1.1 million people have been adversely affected by the conflict in Myanmar. In Kayah State alone, more than 95,100 villagers have been displaced, living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. Consequently, there is a high risk of disease outbreaks and poor hygiene practices.The lack of access to safe water and sanitation facilities has led to a rise in cases of diarrhea, cholera, and other waterborne diseases, particularly among children. A UNICEF study conducted in 2020 revealed that only 60% of the population in Myanmar had access to basic handwashing facilities with soap and water. ltbrgtThe situation is significantly worse in conflict-affected areas like Demoso township. In response to the political conflict in Myanmar since February 2021, CDA has actively participated in providing personal hygiene items and food to those displaced. Additionally, CDA has collaborated with international organizations to expedite the installation of WASH facilities in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps throughout Myanmar. Through these efforts, CDA is committed to promoting socio-economic development and gender equality while supporting vulnerable communities in Myanmar. Among the most affected by the WASH crisis in the target area are children, women, and people with disabilities. The lack of access to safe water and sanitation facilities has resulted in high rates of malnutrition and waterborne diseases, leading to increased morbidity and mortality among children. The barriers and bottlenecks to positive outcomes for children include the absence of safe water and sanitation facilities, poor hygiene practices, and inadequate WASH infrastructure in conflict-affected areas. Hence, CDA has come forward to seek support through the first allocation of the 2023 Myanmar Humanitarian Fund (MHF), under Project code: CBPF-MM-23-S-NGO-25700. ltbrgtThis proposed program aims to address the existing problems by providing critical WASH supplies, promoting hygiene behavior change, and implementing appropriate emergency latrines for the affected population. The primary objective of the proposed program is to provide assistance to 7,253 conflict-affected children and their families in Demoso township, located in the Magway Region of Myanmar. The project will deliver comprehensive WASH support, including cash assistance, to 1,672 households residing in 37 IDP sites within Demoso township. A total of 7,253 individuals will benefit from this project, including 123 disabled persons and 55 pregnant women.  By improving access to safe water, and sanitation facilities, and promoting hygiene practices, this proposed program seeks to reduce waterborne diseases and mitigate risks associated with inadequate WASH conditions. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of building the capacity of local communities to maintain and manage water and sanitation facilities, ensuring the sustainability of interventions. By prioritizing gender equality and inclusive approaches, the program aims to empower communities and contribute to the overall well-being of the conflict-affected population in Demoso township.ltbrgtlt/pgtltpgtlt/pgt