Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-21 00:51:00
Five counties in Liberia, including Lofa, Grand Bassa, Bong, Montserrado, and Nimba, have joined forces to put an end to open defecation in their respective areas. This initiative is part of the Countywide Sanitation Activity sponsored by USAID and implemented by organizations such as Population Services International (PSI), Concern Worldwide, ATHENA Infonomics, and GUSCEMAN Inc.
The goal of the project is to provide households with access to proper sanitation facilities and put an end to the practice of open defecation. The Countywide Sanitation Activity focuses on various aspects of sanitation, governance, marketing, and financing. The deputy chairperson of the National Civil Society Organizations in Liberia, John Alexander Nyahn, Jr., emphasized the importance of including sanitation financing in the development plans and budgets of the five counties to facilitate the eradication of open defecation.
During a three-day event in Ganta where the final resolution was adopted, participants were urged to actively engage in ending open defecation in their communities. USAID Chief of Party for Countywide Sanitation Activity Matthew Ndote highlighted the fact that 64 percent of Liberia’s population still practices open defecation, and most of the funding for sanitation projects comes from non-governmental organizations rather than the government.
Nicore Rock from Athena Infonomics stressed the need for the involvement of all Liberians, both government officials and citizens, to effectively address the issue of open defecation. Lofa County Senator Momo T. Cyrus expressed his support for the five counties leading this sanitation initiative and pledged to work towards ending open defecation in the country. He noted his disappointment that Liberia, despite being one of the oldest African countries, still struggles with open defecation.
The joint resolution adopted by the five counties includes commitments to allocate a percentage of annual funds for sanitation projects and collaborate with sanitation partners and stakeholders to develop policies that promote and sustain adequate sanitation practices. The resolution also emphasizes the importance of transparency, inclusion, and accountability in the execution of sanitation projects.
In conclusion, the efforts of these five counties in Liberia to eradicate open defecation demonstrate a significant step towards improving public health and sanitation practices. With the support of organizations like USAID and the commitment of local leaders and citizens, Liberia is working towards a future free of open defecation.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
