Dowa District Council Conducts Clean-up Exercise
Dowa District Council and Ministry of Water and Sanitation Organize Successful Clean-Up Exercise
Dowa, Malawi - The Dowa District Council, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, organised a successful clean-up exercise on Thursday aimed at promoting hygiene and preventing the outbreak of diseases in local communities, writes Mphatso M'bang'ombe
Under the directive of His Excellency, President Dr. Lazarus Macathy Chakwera, the clean-up initiatives have become a monthly event to ensure the cleanliness and health of the district.
Secretary for Water and Sanitation, Elias Chimulambe, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in combating the spread of cholera and other diseases caused by poor sanitation practices.
"We are delighted to see the positive response from community members in markets, schools, health facilities, and households, who have actively participated in cleaning their respective areas," said Chimulambe.
Supporting the government's efforts, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) donated sanitation and hygiene-related items to aid in maintaining proper hygiene standards.
The donation included tablets of soap for hand washing, 20-litre buckets for water transportation, and 50-litre buckets for storage, particularly in schools and health facilities.
Chimwemwe Nyimba, a water and sanitation specialist at UNICEF, explained the purpose behind the donation, stating, "Our aim is to promote hand washing practises and improve overall hygiene conditions, especially in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. We prioritize the well-being of children and vulnerable populations."
Traditional Authority (T/A) Mkukula expressed gratitude to the organisers of the clean-up exercise and stressed the importance of community involvement in maintaining a clean and litter-free environment.
The chief urged everyone to take responsibility for their surroundings and actively participate in future clean-up activities, ensuring the area remains clean and healthy.
The Dowa District Council's clean-up exercise serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to manage diseases and maintain a hygienic environment.
With the support of the government, organisations like UNICEF, and the commitment of the community, the district aims to achieve sustainable cleanliness and improved public health.