The Challenge: In the Benishangul-Gumuz region, inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices stand as substantial public health concerns. Issues such as improper waste disposal and insufficient understanding of proper hygiene measures persist. The availability of fundamental sanitation facilities remains notably low, consequently leading to the pollution of water sources in the area. This, in turn, escalates the likelihood of diarrheal diseases and other avoidable health ailments. Moreover, the limited knowledge surrounding proper handwashing, sanitation, and correct toilet utilisation compounds these hygiene-associated difficulties.
Our Response: Proper use of sanitation facilities and adopting good hygiene behaviour and practice are proven interventions to reduce the incidence of diarrhoea and other intestinal diseases. The Foundation has implemented a programme to improve hygiene and sanitation practices in schools, health facilities, communal places and households. The programme employs incredibly effective health and safety promotion practices at institutions and community levels. Collaboratively with Health Extension workers and other local governmental personnel, the implementation of Children's Hygiene and Sanitation Training (CHAST) and the Community-Led Total Sanitation and Hygiene (CLTSH) programme are underway, fostering effective use of resources and enhancing successful outcomes.