Beth Seeks to Stop Use of Open Fields As Toilets

Nairobi Star (Nairobi)

Henry Kibira And Evans Nyamwaya

12 May 2011

A programme has been launched to stop people using public places as toilets. Public Health Minister Beth Mugo unveiled the Open Defecation Free initiative and told Kenyans behaviour change is necessary to stop the spread of cholera and other infectious diseases.

The programme intends to ensure people stop using open fields both in slums and rural areas as toilets. She said 40 per cent of the diseases that afflict Kenyans can be prevented through the application of ODF. “We are ready to move with clear ideas as we inaugurate and launch this programme so that we do away with lack of knowledge and cultural practices which have impacted our society in line with controllable diseases,” she said. “There is need to focus on people’s behavior, since this is the biggest problem facing a majority of Kenyans,” she added.

She spelled out poor waste management and inadequate water supply coupled with ignorance as some of the key threats affecting society. As a result of ODF, Kenya will be able to control water borne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, dysentery and worm infections. “Never again shall mothers shed tears because they have lost their loved ones due to diseases caused by open defecation,” she said.

Her ministry intends to eradicate the public nuisance by 2015. “We want to significantly improve the practice of hand washing to over 90 per cent and make every Kenyan aware of toilet use,” she added.

The programme will be implemented by stake holders in the government and the international partners. “Society campaigns and use of media to sensitize people will serve as the vehicle towards national coordination and capacity building. The technical support from various actors, increased effort and unity will make us not to lose in the war,” She said.

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