A Simple Latrine Saves Lives
March 30, 2023
Batemone now has a ventilated improved pit (VIP) latrine. The first in the village! Hurray!
The villagers are elated about this development and are thankful for Transformational Community Development (TCD). Their joy stems from the awareness that the construction of the VIP latrine is another milestone in their journey of change and transformation.
In Batemone, about 25% of the village population have access to latrines. Less than 20% actually use the latrines. Most defecate in the surrounding bushes and around the farmlands. Toddlers and little children defecate on the dirt ground within the family living quarters, older children move a little farther away towards the fence or at the backyard, leaving mothers with the task of either picking up the feces or just covering it up with sand, depending on where each child ‘did it’.
Latrines swarming with flies and cockroaches in a few homes, open defecation in surrounding bushes and on the farms, and mothers improperly disposing of children’s feces daily are unhygienic practices which adversely impacts the health of the community.
Sayi, the TCD worker, reported active participation of some young ladies and men in the latrine construction, providing labor and fetching water. With availability of water (they built a borehole last year), a VIP latrine, and continuing wellness education, the Batemone people are no doubt in for improved health and upgraded living conditions- the exact goals that TCD aims to achieve.
Thank you!
Written by: Shade
GHNI Project Manager
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