This baseline survey was carried out for the USAID-funded Lowland WASH Activity in the Afar, Somali and SNNP regions of Ethiopia from April to May 2016. Lowland WASH aims to accelerate the expansion of improved sustainable drinking water supply and sanitation access and to catalyze enhanced hygiene behaviors, while also expanding sustainable water use for agriculture for populations vulnerable to drought and climate change.

The main objectives of the survey are to provide benchmark data to:  Develop an evidence-based strategy and implementation plan for improving WASH coverage, facilities, and management at community level; and  Set the basis for tracking (through future repeat surveys) changes that will be induced by Lowland WASH activities on the ground, and thus monitor the progress and performance of Lowland WASH.