The Department of Health Services and Sanitation in Trans Nzoia County has reaffirmed its commitment to universal access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene ( WASH ) for children and communities.
The pledge was made during celebrations to mark the International Day of the African Child in Kwanza Sub-County at Kapkoi Comprehensive School.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services, was held under the theme _’Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa’.
Speaking at the event, Trans Nzoia County Executive Committee Member in charge of Health Christopher Lorot said access to safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene is a fundamental child’s right which cannot be ignored.
“This year’s theme gives us an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in upholding the economic and social rights of children, particularly the right to clean and safe water as provided for under Article 43(1)(d) of our Constitution,” he said.
He linked poor WASH services to preventable child mortality, malnutrition, waterborne diseases, school absenteeism, and child labour especially in arid and semi-arid areas.
“Climate change has also made WASH implementation more difficult. Kenya has experienced one of the worst droughts in 60 years, with three major cycles between 2011 and 2020. This has severely affected food security, water availability, sanitation, and hygiene,” he noted.
He assured residents that the county government is strengthening climate-resilient WASH strategies.
“As a government, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening climate-resilient WASH services, expanding access to safe water and sanitation, and ensuring no child is left behind in the face of climate change and emergencies,” the CECM stated.
Lorot called on stakeholders to invest in children’s WASH needs and acknowledged ongoing partnerships between the national and county governments to improve service delivery.
The CECM assured learners of the Ministry’s commitment to creating a safer environment where they can reach their potential.
Also present was Mrs Linet Mayabi, a Gender Officer in Trans Nzoia, who said the department is providing sanitary towels to keep girls in school.
“We provide sanitary towels to school-going children to ensure girls do not stay home every month due to lack of sanitary products,” she said.
She appealed to the government to install incinerators in schools for safe disposal of sanitary pads.
By Isaiah Nayika and Sandra Omondi
