A Non Governmental Organization, HACEY Health Initiative,has provided electric powered boreholes to residents of Ughelli North, Isoko North,Isoko South and Ethiope East Local Government Council Areas of Delta State, with the motive of improving access to clean and safe water in the areas.
The organization equally, equipped primary health care workers, public primary school teachers and community leaders in the council areas, on how best to achieve and sustain proper sanitation and hygienic practices for safety of all and sundry.
The Project Lead, HACEY Health Initiative, Mrs. Chioma Obi, while speaking during the Clean Water Initiative Capacity Building Workshop, organised by the organization,at Nulge Hall, Ughelli North Local Government Secretariat , Delta State, attributed the increase in incidence of maternal and neonatal mortality and increased prevalence of water – borne diseases to poor access to water sanitation and hygienic facilities ( WASH ) by individuals.
Mrs. Chioma,
maintained that access to safe water,adequate sanitation facilities and hygiene promotion remains basic human Right that plays an integral role in improving productivity.
She noted that limited access to basic water sanitation and hygienic services puts vulnerable population at risk of water related diseases.
According to her ” HACEY Health Initiative with support from Aspire Coronation Trust Foundation ( ACTF ), launched the clean water initiative project in 2015, aimed at improving access to portable water in rural and underserved communities ”
” The project has provided boreholes and trainings on WASH best practices to over 150, 000 people in 52 communities across South West , Nigeria ”
She noted that plans were underway to increase the availability of basic WASH information services in seven Primary Health Care Centers and Six Public Schools in Oyo and Delta States.
Mrs. Chioma,while reiterating the need for community members to continually practice proper water sanitation and hygienic behaviours, called for collaboration among health workers, academias and community members, towards establishing structures that will ensure water facility is protected as expected.
In his remarks , the Assistant Director , in charge of Public Schools in Delta State , Dr. Mike Emeshili, commended the organization for complementing government’s efforts through the provision of WASH information and facilities to some healthcare centers and schools in Delta State.
He pledged to work with other relevant stakeholders in the state to ensure the sustainability of the project .