NGO promotes hygiene in schools to beat cholera

Ukhondo Services Foundation is promoting water, sanitation and hygiene (Wash) initiatives around Mlare-Lupembe area to complement government’s efforts to contain the spread of cholera in Karonga District.

Speaking on Wednesday during the opening of a four-day training for school matrons and patrons, the organisation’s executive director Edgar Phiri said it was important to know how to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

He said school authorities should ensure that children drink clean water, wear shoes, keep their food safe, use toilets properly and wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet.

“After the training, we expect schools to form vibrant Wash clubs in Chiwondo Zone to promote personal hygiene,” said Phiri.

Chikondi Kapira, a participant from Chiwondo Primary School, said they learned a user-friendly model for junior classes.

She said: “We will make the exercises exciting while driving the Wash messages home.

“The models that facilitators used to teach us were user-friendly that learners will find them exciting while taking the messages.”

Karonga District Schools Health Nutrition coordinator Patrick Chavula said the training came at the right time when the district was grappling with the cholera outbreak.

“I am optimistic that the matrons and patrons will make good use of this initiative to intensify the fight against cholera in the district,” he said.

Eldred Mbale, a community member, hailed the organisation for the initiative, saying it will protect children from waterborne diseases.

“We are worried with the rising cholera cases in the country. We will be grateful for any interventions by different stakeholders to contain the outbreak,” she said.

With funding from World Vision Malawi, Ukhondo Services Foundation is implementing a one-year Wash Up Project in Chiwondo Zone in the district.