Kwara govt launches campaign to combat open defecation in Ifelodun
In a decisive move to eliminate open defecation and improve public health, the Kwara State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) held a vigorous sensitization campaign today in Share, within the Ifelodun Local Government Area.
During an engaging session with local stakeholders at the Local Government Secretariat, RUWASSA’s General Manager, Mr. Olorunfemi Oladipo, underscored the critical importance of the meeting. He shared that the initiative aims to inform the residents of Ifelodun about the state government’s commitment to eradicating open defecation and enhancing the community’s overall health.
Represented by Mr. Muazu Buhari, the Secretary of RUWASSA, Mr. Oladipo highlighted that Kwara State is one of the states with the highest rates of open defecation. He emphasized the urgent need for community collaboration to support government efforts in achieving an Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.
Mr. Oladipo pointed out the dire consequences of open defecation, which not only contaminates water sources but also spreads diseases, thereby jeopardizing public health. He mentioned that this practice negatively affects socio-economic development, decreasing productivity and increasing healthcare costs. He urged all stakeholders to work together to combat this pressing issue.
The agency has recently conducted similar sessions in Oke Ero, Ilorin West, and Ilorin South to raise awareness about the dangers of open defecation and foster cooperation between the government and the public to pursue a cleaner, healthier Kwara.
Mr. AbdulAzeez Rufai, Head of the Sanitation and Hygiene Department, emphasized that this stakeholders’ meeting represents one of many steps RUWASSA is taking to achieve its objectives. He described the initiative as community-led total sanitation, which includes forming committees within local governments to facilitate communication between citizens and officials and constructing public toilets where necessary.
The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Mr. Femi Yusuf, represented by the Head of Administration, Mr. Awoniyi Isaiah, expressed gratitude for the initiative and assured residents’ commitment to supporting the government’s goals.
Community leader Mr. Amao Kolawole praised the program for its significant benefits and called for improvements in power supply and public toilets in key locations across the area.
This campaign epitomizes a collective effort towards a healthier community and sustainable development in Kwara State.
