Windhoek: The United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) highlighted a significant gap between urban and rural communities during the fourth Junior National Council's opening session on Monday, demonstrating ongoing service disparities despite infrastructure improvements related to a child's location. Unicef participated in the session, which continues until 04 September, under the theme "Towards Universal Access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene for Every Namibian Child."According to Namibia Press Agency, the fund is a donor to the council, following a Memorandum of Understanding established in April with the National Council (2026-2029) to enhance child participation in governance, budgeting, and lawmaking, specifically to strengthen the Junior National Council. Speaking at the youth council's opening session, Toshiko Takahashi, Unicef Deputy Country Representative, said while Namibia has made considerable strides in providing clean water, regional disparities persist.She stated that 93.9% of Namibians hav e access to basic water services; however, access varies among children. In Khomas, the access rate is 99.8%, while in //Kharas it is 79.8%, and in Kunene, 77.3%. 'Sanitation presents an even greater challenge,' she said, stressing that only 66.6% of Namibians have access to improved sanitation, with 47.2% still practising open defecation. The disparity between urban and rural areas is pronounced, with 70.9% of rural households engaging in open defecation compared to 25.3% in urban areas.'But these numbers are not just numbers. They are about whether a child has clean water to drink, a safe toilet to use and a place to wash their hands. When children do not have these basic things, they become sick, miss school and find it harder to learn and grow. For girls especially, having a safe and private toilet is important for their dignity, safety and ability to stay in school,' she remarked. She emphasised the session's theme, stating that water, sanitation, and hygiene extend beyond mere facilities; they encompa ss health, education, safety, dignity, and rights.'Every child in Namibia deserves clean water, a safe toilet and good hygiene. No child should be left behind. So today, let us remember that when we make sure every child has clean water, sanitation and hygiene, we are helping children to stay healthy, go to school, learn, dream and reach their full potential,' she stated. Takahashi emphasised Unicef's commitment to partnering with Namibia to advance children's rights and well-being, ensuring access to essential services like water, sanitation, health, and education.