Environment
THE Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN), has introduced `Dig and Bury Excreta’, an innovation to prevent disease outbreak from open defecation in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDP) camps in Kogi.
NEWSWAN coordinator in Kogi, Mrs Roseline Alabi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, that the innovation became necessary as flooding had displaced many residents into temporary camps.
Alabi said the four IDP camps in Kogi had been properly educated on dangers of open defecation, which could lead to outbreak of cholera and other preventable, communicable diseases.
“We are working progressively to ensure that those in the camps stopped open defecation.
“We advise them that since there are not enough toilets, they should dig and bury their excreta.
“It is noteworthy that the state government has come to the aid of people in the IDP camps by providing some toilets,’’ she said.
Alabi also told NAN that NEWSWAN conducted hand washing sensitisation at the IDP camps and distributed routine basic hygiene supplies, health supplies, and sanitary kits to women and young girls.
She called for the inclusion of NEWSWAN members in Kogi’s flood control and response committee to enhance coordination and improve the lives of the displaced people.
“We promote hygiene; we sensitise communities about the dangers of cholera which can affect a whole state,’’ she said.
Alabi added that more advocacies would be conducted with critical stakeholders to prioritise access to potable water and sanitation in Kogi. (NAN)
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Tags: NEWSAN Roseline Alabi
