Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea has noted that County’s latrine coverage stands at an impressive 99 percent in Uasin Gishu.

The shortfall is a paltry 0.5 percent, meaning that Uasin Gishu has an almost complete latrine coverage. Approximately 1,000 households said to be still practicing open defecation.

The Deputy Governor spoke in Langas Ward during the commemoration of World Toilet Day where he noted that diarrhoea cases have significantly reduced due to the persistent health messaging delivered by the County Health Promoters and Public Health officers.

“There has been a 13 percent reduction in waterborne disease cases, dropping
from 29 percent to 16 percent in our county a clear indication of the impact
of our interventions,” said Hon Kapkea.

DG Kapkea also said that through collaborative efforts with the partners, they have continued to improve sanitation
infrastructure.

“As part of the slum upgrade program, we are constructing additional
modern toilets, which will significantly benefit residents upon completion.Similarly the ongoing community awareness campaigns have empowered families to
adopt hygienic practices, such as proper waste disposal and regular handwashing,”added Hon Kapkea.

Moreover ,the Deputy Governor reaffirmed the administration commitment to making the toilet not just a place for peace, but a cornerstone of health and well-being adding that “Prevention is better than cure,” and this principle remains at the heart
of Governor Dr Jonathan Bii’s strategy.

Health Services County Executive Dr Abraham Serem emphasized that hospitals play a key role in linking patients with water-related illnesses, such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, and typhoid therefore the need to enhance sanitation issues to prevent the spread of such illnesses.

He also called on members of the public to enrol to Social Health Authority to benefit from free medical services.

Promotive and Preventive Health Chief Officer Dr Paul Wangwe urged the residents to put up the toilets in all the homesteads inorder to avoid open defecation, which poses health risks

This year’s theme, “Toilet: A Place for Peace,” reminds the public of the
essential benefits toilets bring to both urban and rural communities in promoting dignity, safety, and good health while reducing conflict and improving quality of life.