Nkhata Bay District Achieves Open Defecation Free Status, Promoting Good Health
Deputy Minister Liana Kakhobwe Kumpota praises Nkhata Bay's successful efforts in eradicating open defecation, leading to improved sanitation and better health outcomes.
NKHATA BAY, Malawi - Nkhata Bay district in Malawi has achieved the remarkable milestone of becoming Open defecation-free, signalling a significant improvement in sanitation practises and better health outcomes for its residents, writes Rabecca Kaunda.
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Liana Kakhobwe Kumpota expressed her admiration for the district's success during an event held at Kafunga Ground in Senior Chief Mankhambira.
"It is truly impressive to witness how the people of Nkhata Bay have embraced improved pit latrines in every household, eliminating open defecation. This positive change in mindset will greatly contribute to the overall health status of the district," stated Kumpota.
The Deputy Minister spoke of the importance of this achievement in ending water-borne diseases, highlighting the Ministry's excitement regarding Nkhata Bay's Open defecation-free status.
She urged other districts to follow suit and construct their own pit latrines, emphasising the role they play in preventing diseases such as cholera.
World Vision Director of Operations, Mavuto Kholowa, revealed that their organisation has supported the implementation of improved pit latrines in every household across 35 Traditional Authorities in Malawi.
This collaborative effort has been instrumental in promoting proper sanitation practises and reducing open defecation.
Dongakhulu Hlongo, Director of Human Resources and Administration at the Northern Region Water Board, emphasised their commitment to community education on the importance of sanitation.
Through the Nkhata Bay town water supply and sanitation initiative, they have extended their supply system to previously inaccessible areas.
"With the water supply reaching all corners of the district, we can contribute to improved sanitation in those communities," explained Hlongo.
Nkhata Bay district has faced significant challenges, including outbreaks of cholera, due to a lack of pit latrines in many households, leading to open defecation.
However, the successful efforts in achieving open defecation-free status signify a turning point in promoting healthier practises and reducing the risk of water-borne diseases.
As Nkhata Bay sets an example for other districts, it is hoped that similar initiatives will be undertaken nationwide to ensure improved sanitation and better health outcomes for all communities in Malawi.