Conclusion of Basse Santa Su Latrine Project – The Gambia

This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Elizabeth Thompson. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.

The project was to build a latrine at the support center.

Elizabeth reports:

The purpose of this project was to build a latrine at the HIV/AIDS support center.

The structure, built of concrete block, was completed, and contains two stalls, plus showering facilities.

Project funds were used to pay the diggers and purchase cement, corrugate, sand, and gravel. The structure was built by male members of the support society who donated their labor.

This project was extremely touching to be a part of for me and several other volunteers. Not only does Water Charity support projects that provide clean drinking water solutions for people in developing countries, but it supports latrine projects. As many people know, human waste is a huge issue and a major component of sickness and infant mortality. Those people who are HIV positive are ESPECIALLY susceptible to these types of infections and sicknesses that come with living in the same area where people defecate.

Men who are weak as a result of the virus built the latrine and did an amazing job. The president of the support group was even able to gather residents and sensitize them on the virus.

The latrine was completely covered and they were even able to put in an actual toilet and showers for bathing. The project took only a few weeks and the support members are much more comfortable when they use the house.

We are grateful to Elizabeth for completing this project.