Improving water and sanitation facilities at Isalo

Background:
SHIPO has planned a WASH intervention at Isalalo Primary School to address the critical shortage of safe water and adequate sanitation facilities, particularly for girls. The project aims to construct a girls’ latrine block (8 drop-holes/rooms, 1 changing room/MHM unit with incinerator) and install water facilities (1 water point, handwashing facility with 8 taps) by December 2023.

Challenge:
The school currently faces a significant deficit in girls’ latrine drop-holes, with a ratio of 1:78, far above the SWASH guideline of 1:20. There is also insufficient access to clean water and proper handwashing facilities, which negatively impacts students’ health, hygiene, and school attendance, especially for girls.

Proposed Solution:
The planned construction will reduce the girls’ latrine drop-hole ratio from 1:78 to 1:31, representing a 52% improvement. The project also includes a dedicated changing room/MHM unit and an incinerator to support menstrual hygiene management, alongside improved water and handwashing infrastructure.

Long-Term Impact:
Before construction, the project will initiate community sensitization and engagement meetings to ensure good governance, parental involvement, and effective supervision. This approach is expected to enhance project sustainability and foster a sense of ownership among stakeholders.

Current Status:
As of now, no implementation activities have commenced. The primary reason is that fundraising efforts have not yet reached the required level to begin construction or procurement. No physical work or procurement has taken place at the site. The project remains at the planning and fundraising stage, awaiting sufficient financial resources to proceed.

Conclusion:
SHIPO remains committed to addressing the WASH challenges at Isalalo Primary School. However, the start of implementation is entirely dependent on the successful mobilization of the necessary funds. Stakeholder support and continued fundraising efforts are crucial to move this important project forward.