FAOWHOUNU

FAOWHOUNU is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to improving global health and nutrition. It coordinates programs across water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), maternal and child health, and nutrition security in low-resource settings. The organization collaborates with governments, local communities, and other aid groups to implement sustainable health interventions and to advocate for evidence-based policies.

Founded in 2008 by a coalition of humanitarian NGOs and public health researchers, FAOWHOUNU established its headquarters in Geneva and maintains regional offices in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. It is governed by a board of directors and a secretariat, with member organizations contributing personnel, expertise, and funding. The organization prioritizes data-driven decision making and accountability.

Core programs include WASH improvements, nutrition supplementation and school-based feeding, vaccination campaigns, and emergency response. FAOWHOUNU also conducts health systems strengthening, epidemiological surveillance, and operational research. It supports capacity-building through training, technical assistance, and the development of local supply chains. The organization emphasizes gender equality, community engagement, and culturally appropriate approaches in all activities.

Funding for FAOWHOUNU comes from member dues, project grants, and philanthropic foundations, with annual reports detailing financials and outcomes. The organization has implemented projects in dozens of countries and collaborates with United Nations agencies, regional health authorities, and academic institutions. While widely active, it faces ongoing scrutiny regarding overhead, transparency, and impact measurement, to which it responds with regular audits and public disclosures.