UNICEF, community leaders strategize to end open defecation in Anambra

Traditional rulers and community leaders in Anambra state have been urged to explore better and effective strategies towards putting an end to open defecation in the state.

The call was made at a two-day sensitization meeting with the United Nations Children’s fund UNICEF, Wash Sanitation and Hygiene Office, traditional rulers and President Generals in Aguata Local Government Area on Open Defecation Roadmap.

The sensitization meeting, attended by community leaders from Isuofia, Uga, Oraeri, Ezinifite, Amesi, Akpo, Umuchu and Igboukwu among others, brainstormed on proper sanitation method and best way to maximize amenities under the domain of the royal fathers.

Speaking during the meeting, the WASH Coordinator, Peter Akwobi said the forum was aimed at sensitizing the locals on the implications of not having toilet facilities in their markets, parks, town halls and other public places.

He said while the toilets facilities are lacking in some communities, those who have the facilities, hardly make use of them, thereby exposing themselves to all kinds of health hazards.

Also speaking, the Sanitation Officer, Rural Water Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), Mrs.  Nwankwu Oluchi, expressed satisfaction at the steady improvement of the residents to health issues, which has resulted to the certification of about 225 communities as open defecation free.

She urged the remaining communities to key into the exercise to ensure the entire Area Council attained open defection free status.

In his speech, the traditional ruler of Isuofia, Igwe Christopher Moughalu commended UNICEF and other supporting agencies for remaining steadfast in promoting hygiene, sanitation and development among communities.

He called for the resuscitation of the Obizi water scheme to provide water for most communities in the council area and reduce the cost of sinking and maintaining boreholes.

One of the President Generals, Samuel Okeke, regretted the rampant defection of feaces by dogs in the area, calling for the enforcement of law restricting dogs from roaming the streets within the communities.