This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Jen Richards. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to build 2 latrines at the Fass Toucouleur Elementary School.
Jen reports:
The school latrine project in Fass Toucouleur began before the funds came in. I partnered up with the Chief of the village to ensure that I would receive fair price quotes on supplies and any labor needing to be purchased outside of our community.
With the Chief’s help, I was able to select a mason with a great deal of experience and arrange for a couple of work days with the men of the village donating their time and labor to the project. It was great how enthusiastic and positive people were. Everyone said they were so happy to have a school bathroom for our children to use. Nearly every household had men contribute to the digging of the tank as a way of helping out the project, and support our community. I provided lunch on these big work days as a thank you for all the hard work.
Once the tank was dug the mason and his few assistants got to work on the actual construction. The Chief and I stayed close by in case of issues or trouble; fortunately, things went really smoothly. The mason became ill at one point, but he fully recovered within a week and the project was only delayed a bit.
Before the latrines were complete the Chief and I discussed with the teachers the logistics of how the bathrooms would be monitored and how to organize a regular delivery of water for hand washing stations and flushing. The eldest school children share the chore of bringing water to the latrines when the large barrel runs low. There is a well not far away, maybe 50 meters, and so far this method has been working well.
Everyone in Fass Toucouleur has expressed their gratitude for the latrines. It is such a good feeling when something is achieved rather quickly and qualitatively that promotes health and smiles!
We are grateful to Jen for completing this project, and again wish to thank The Soneva SLOW LIFE Trust for providing the funding.
