The Kwale-based Australian Mining firm, Base Titanium has intensified setting up of handwashing units in high traffic zones across the coastal county to curb the spread of Covid-19.
The Base Titanium Community Relations Manager (CRM), Pius Kassim said on Sunday access to handwashing facilities is a vital component to help contain the spread of the pandemic.
Kassim said they are pleased to see residents of Kwale embracing these facilities, noting that keeping hands clean, covering coughs and sneezes can prevent the spread of infections.
The official said they are ready to complement efforts by the county and national government in curbing the spread of Covid-19.
The CRM said the campaign of public handwashing will go a long way in stemming further spread of the coronavirus in the county, which has three confirmed cases of the viral disease.
The County Assembly Deputy Speaker, Andrew Mulei welcomed the initiative to install handwashing units by the organization across the 20 wards of the county.
Base Titanium set up more handwashing units at Shimba Hills Trading Centre and Lukore dispensary in Kubo South, bringing the total number of units installed by Base in the county to 30.
The deputy speaker called on the residents to observe high standards of hygiene in order to keep the virus at bay noting that ‘hand hygiene is important to prevent the spread of the contagious disease among communities.
He said handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of the coronavirus.
“We all have a responsibility to keep this virus at bay. These handwashing units have been brought here with just one single purpose in mind, that is, to ward off this virus. Let’s make use of them and follow directives that are given by the Ministry of Health and also observe social distancing,” said Mulei.
Kassim said plans are in place to install more handwashing units in Lunga Lunga and Matuga sub counties “because people seem keen to use them in areas we have already installed them.”
He said they are working closely with the county government to ensure residents have access to fixed hand washing facilities and reliable water supplies.
By Hussein Abdullahi
