The “Unlocking Water and Sanitation Financing Through the Heads of State Initiative” event focuses on mobilizing political leadership to drive sustainable financing for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). As part of the broader International Conference on Financing for Development, the event highlighted how direct involvement from heads of state can elevate WASH as a national development priority, align public budgets, and attract private sector investment.

Showcasing country experiences from initiatives under Sanitation and Water for All (SWA), including leadership from nations like Benin, Ethiopia, and Nepal, the event emphasized mutual accountability and innovative financing models. By creating high-level political momentum, the initiative seeks to accelerate progress toward SDG 6 by 2030, especially through cross-sectoral integration with climate and economic policies.