Residents of West Pokot County were sensitized during the launch of Sanitation Week and World Toilet Day through a series of activities designed to enhance awareness regarding the importance of sanitation and hygiene, under the theme “Sanitation for Peace”.
The event held at Makutano town in Kapenguria constituency was organized by the ministry of health in collaboration with various stakeholders, including Action against Hunger, the Kenya Red Cross Society, Rotary Doctors, Yang’at organization, Huduma Centre, banks, and media representatives.
The occasion underscored the vital importance of sanitation in fostering public health, peace, and social unity.
During the launch, Benson Ruto, the County Director for Public Health department said the ministry of health was commitment to improving sanitation infrastructure in both rural, urban areas and under-served communities.
“Access to proper sanitation can reduce the spread of disease, foster harmony, and ultimately improve the quality of life for our people,’’ said Ruto.
He emphasized that many common diseases stem from poor hygiene practices and unsanitary living conditions.
“Many diseases we face in our communities, such as cholera, dysentery, and other waterborne illnesses, often come in the form of dirtiness and these diseases thrive in environments where proper sanitation is lacking,’’ said Ruto.
As part of the national observance, he called on local communities to take responsibility for maintaining cleaner environments both in their homes and surrounding areas, stressing the need for collective efforts in tackling sanitation challenges.
“When we improve sanitation, we also reduce the social and economic burdens caused by illness, and this in turn promotes a more peaceful and productive society,” he said.
Ruto further noted that while West Pokot County had significantly improved sanitation infrastructure, challenges such as inadequate water supply and lack of access to modern sanitation facilities still persisted, particularly in remote and rural areas.
He noted that the Ministry of Health, local leaders and health stakeholders would continue to engage communities through education and infrastructure development to help address the sanitation challenges.
“Our goal is to build a healthier, cleaner, and safer environment for all, We believe that if every family, every individual plays their part in maintaining hygiene and sanitation, we can significantly reduce the burden of disease in our county,” stated Rutto.
On her part, Kapenguria Division Assistant County Commissioner Mrs.Emilly Ogolla stated that the government aims to empower communities by helping them build sanitation utilities, which would not only improve public health but also enhance their livelihoods.
“Our primary goal is to bring back the dignity of our people by ensuring that every household has access to proper sanitation facilities,” said Ogolla.
Ogolla emphasized the importance of sanitation in reducing the spread of diseases and improving the quality of life for residents in the region, especially in rural and underserved areas where access to sanitation infrastructure remains a challenge.
The ACC explained that improving sanitation is a key factor in promoting public health and fostering sustainable development.
The ACC also pointed out the link between sanitation and peace, stressing that improving sanitation facilities can help reduce conflicts over water and sanitation resources.
“Better sanitation leads to stronger communities, where people can live in harmony and with dignity,” said ACC.
She commended the residents for their determination to adopt sanitation practices that contribute to disease prevention and overall well-being.
Additionally, she acknowledged the pivotal role that the Ministry of Public Health and its partners have played in raising awareness about sanitation and helping communities hence recognizing their ongoing support in implementing sanitation initiatives that are improving public health and livelihoods across the county.
By Anthony Melly and Agneta Chebet
