WORLD Vision Zambia in collaboration with the Eastern Province Water and Sanitation has declared Chikwa Chiefdom in Chama district with an Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.
This is after households successfully constructed toilets and hand wash facilities in the chiefdom.
Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole says Chikwa chiefdom becomes the fifth chiefdom in the province to attain the ODF status.
Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) reports that speaking during the ceremony held in Chama South, Mr Thole said Chikwa chiefdom has attained the status after Madzimawe chiefdom of Kasenengwa,Pembamoyo chiefdom of Vubwi and Phikamalaza chiefdom of Chasefu districts.
“This milestone achievement by the people of Chikwa chiefdom is a testament of the collective efforts and dedication of the community, partners and stakeholders. By working together, we have created a cleaner, healthier and more dignified environment for our citizens,” he said.
Mr Thole said according to the 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey, 33 percent of the country’s population uses a basic sanitation service while 24 percent has access to basic hygiene services and 10 percent practices open defecation.
“We recognise that open defecation is not only a sanitation issue but also a matter of human dignity, self-respect and community pride. By eliminating open defecation, we have taken a crucial step towards protecting our water sources and environment as well as promoting hygiene and sanitation practices,” he said.
And World Vision WASH technical manager Jessy Samuyachi said in the initial six months assessment by the Provincial WASH, only 27.49 percent of villages were ODF, with 117 villages meeting the standard out of 333 villages.
Ms Samuyachi said a total of 4,525 households across chiefdoms now are equipped with toilets that are benefitting over 31,552 people.
She commended Chief Chikwa for his exemplary leadership and personal commitment in addressing open defecation challenges in his chiefdom.
“The chief provided direct support to the most difficult villages by monitoring progress closely,” Ms Samuyachi said.
Meanwhile, Chief Chikwa commended World Vision and the local WASH committee in Chama district for their adequate sensitisation to bring about a mindset change among his subjects where open defecation was a concern.
The traditional ruler said the mindset change has greatly spearheaded improved sanitation levels among his people.
He said just because the village has attained its ODF status does mean that people must go back to their old ways of life.
“Please let us maintain cleanliness in our communities as a way of preventing disease outbreaks,” he said.
