World Water Day 2026
Water, sanitation and shared prosperity
Access to clean water and sanitation is fundamental to health, dignity and equality.
This World Water Day (which falls on 22 March), under the UN theme ‘Water and Gender’, we recognise how improved sanitation can help create fairer opportunities for all, especially for girls and young women who are often most affected by water insecurity.
Through the Givaudan Foundation, we are supporting rural communities in our sourcing regions to create healthier, more dignified environments through water, sanitation and wellbeing initiatives.
Supporting healthier schools in Agboville, Côte d’Ivoire
In sun-drenched Agboville, near our katemfe sourcing areas, a lack of access to clean water and sanitation had led to waterborne illness and missed school days.
With the Givaudan Foundation’s support and local partnerships, a primary school was renovated with new toilets and handwashing facilities, providing 350 students and 20 teachers with a cleaner and safer place to learn.
The project also included training for students, teachers and community members to keep the facilities in good condition, ensuring a lasting impact built on shared responsibility.
Bringing clean water and reliable power to schools in Karnataka, India
In turmeric-growing communities of rural Karnataka, children face similar challenges. The Foundation worked with local partners to improve conditions in five schools, reaching around 600 students and 40 teachers.
At four schools, safe drinking water systems and solar panels were installed, providing reliable power for fans and lights. At another, gender-specific toilets and handwashing stations were built; a crucial factor in enabling girls to attend school safely and with confidence.
The projects also launched student-led ‘Green Clubs’, empowering children to champion hygiene and environmental care within their schools and communities.
Building futures through water and dignity
From West Africa to South Asia, these projects show how improving access to clean water and sanitation empowers education, equality and wellbeing.
By ensuring that school environments are safe and healthy, the Givaudan Foundation is helping to improve lives in the communities where Givaudan sources and operates.
Read more about Givaudan’s approach to supporting communities in our latest Integrated Report and visit the Givaudan Foundation for more about the Foundation’s work.