Location
Mbale, Kenya
Community Description
Mbale, with a close-knit population of about 5,500, is situated in the beautiful Taita Hills. Most of the people earn a living by harvesting a vast variety of fruits and vegetables.
Malaria, upper respiratory tract infection, and gastro-intestinal issues are the main health concerns, as proper hygiene is often overlooked..
The local dispensary has no handwashing stations for patients. Additionally, the 6 schools in the area lack handwashing stations at their restrooms as well.
Project Description
This project is to install 2 handwashing stations (one for boys, one for girls) at the local dispensary and at each of the 6 schools.
The handwashing stations will be placed outside of the restrooms. Each consists of a 20-liter water tank with a tap. The tap will be fitted by a local skilled handyman. Each tank will be placed on a stool for ease of use. Stools will be provided to those schools that do not have them.
An initial supply of handwashing soap will be provided to the schools, and signs will be posted at the restrooms explaining correct handwashing procedures. After the installation of the stations, school administrators will be responsible for providing soap and filling the water tanks when needed.
The dispensary has a water source. At the schools, 2 students each day will be assigned the duty of keeping the tanks full by the teachers. The water source is a river that runs near the schools.
With the help of the community-based group Coast Youth for Change, presentations will be given on the importance of handwashing and proper handwashing techniques.
Project Impact
This project will benefit about 400 students and faculty.
Peace Corps Volunteer Directing Project
DaMon Mosley
Comments
This project demonstrates our commitment to using the appropriate technology under the circumstances. In this instance, the project is the simplest and least expensive means of accomplishing the objective of improving hygiene and reducing disease.
Education and sustainability are built into the project, which provides a basis for expansion or improvement. As behaviors are changed, the benefits will spread to the families of the students.
Dollar Amount of Project
$500.00
Donations Collected to Date
$500.00
Dollar Amount Needed
$0.00 – This project has now been fully funded through the generosity of The Soneva SLOW LIFE Trust as a part of their Clean Water Projects initiative.
We encourage others to continue to donate using the Donate button below, and we will notify DaMon of your donation. Additional funds will be used to fund the next project by the PCV and/or other projects in the country of service.
This project has been finished. To read about the conclusion of the project, CLICK HERE.