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Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau
In an effort to combat diarrhoeal diseases, Government has intensified the implementation of the rural Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme.
Following a cholera outbreak in Mashonaland Central’s Chiutare Village in Ward 5, Guruve has eradicated open defecation.
With support from Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH), a Germany-based private voluntary organisation, 52 households in the village have constructed standard toilets.
Previously, the village had inadequate toilet facilities, leading villagers to resort to using secluded areas in the bush for defecation.
WHH provincial manager Mr Tamuka Betserai commended the village for its dedication and collaboration in constructing the toilets.
He also expressed gratitude for the support received from the district water and sanitation committee during the construction process.
Ten individuals from the area, including women, received training from the organisation on the construction of standard toilets and played a key role in the construction efforts.
Guruve District Development Coordinator (DDC) Mr Langton Mupeta said: “This programme will go a long way in making the village free from diseases.
“Good hygiene results in good health and this is a correct step towards the successful accomplishment of the National Development Strategy 1.”
Mr Mupeta said universal health coverage was necessary for the achievement of Vision 2030. Proper sanitation keeps the community away from clinics and hospitals, saving money, he said.
Chief Chipuriro expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
“The President’s vision is bearing fruit for the benefit of ordinary citizens. To my subjects, I urge you to construct more toilets and maintain them,” he said. “There will come a time when I will move door-to-door penalising those without toilets.”
A beneficiary of the programme, Ms Elis Katyaupandu said every household in the village now has a standard toilet.
“We are hopeful that diarrhoeal diseases will be reduced,” she said.
District Information Officer for Guruve, Mr Godfrey Chireru, commended WHH for improving sanitation in the area.
Five schools in the district, he said, have 10 squat-hole toilets each built by the organisation.
Online Reporter