In November 2024, Kenya’s Garissa and Turkana Counties faced significant challenges in water and sanitation provisions for schools and health facilities, as reported by REACH.
The inadequate sanitation infrastructure in schools within both host and refugee communities was alarming, with over 80% of facilities failing to meet national standards for male and female learners. This deficiency not only affects the quality of education but also impacts school attendance and the risk of student dropouts.
Host communities in Garissa and Turkana encountered more severe obstacles compared to refugee communities. Many relied on unsafe water sources that required further treatment. Shockingly, half of the schools in the Garissa host community depended on unimproved water sources, and 9% had no access to water at all. The absence of safe water hinders basic education outcomes, including drinking, food preparation, and hand-washing.
Hand-washing stations in both health and school facilities were often inadequate, lacking soap which diminished their effectiveness. This deficiency posed a significant challenge to maintaining proper hygiene for students and patients. Moreover, the absence of hand-washing facilities in 68% of households in refugee camps exacerbated unmet water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs, elevating the risk of cholera outbreaks among household members.
Ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities is crucial for promoting health and well-being, especially in vulnerable communities like those in Garissa and Turkana Counties. The lack of these basic amenities not only affects education and health outcomes but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and disease.
Historically, regions facing water and sanitation challenges have struggled with various health crises, including waterborne diseases and malnutrition. Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation exacerbates the vulnerability of populations, particularly children and women, to these health risks.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for improved infrastructure and resources to address water and sanitation challenges in these regions. Sustainable solutions that incorporate community involvement and long-term planning are essential to ensure lasting improvements in water and sanitation access.
The global community must collaborate to support initiatives that prioritize water and sanitation infrastructure in vulnerable regions. By investing in these fundamental resources, we can promote better health outcomes, enhance educational opportunities, and empower communities to thrive.