Murang’a leaders, experts push for modern school sanitation designs to promote hygiene and prevent disease outbreaks

As Kenya joined the rest of the world in marking Global Handwashing Day, leaders and health experts in Murang’a County have called for the adoption of modern sanitation designs in schools to promote hygiene and prevent disease outbreaks.

The event, held at Kirimiri Primary and Secondary Schools in Maragua Constituency, brought together public health officials, local leaders, and development partners who emphasized the need for continued hygiene education and improved sanitation infrastructure.

Spanish medical expert Dr. Victorio Torres said the initiative serves as a reminder that hygiene and sanitation are inseparable in achieving public health goals.

“We must combine sanitation and hygiene to meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Proper handwashing with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds can save lives,” said Dr. Torres.

He showcased modern school toilets equipped with soap dispensers and push taps that minimize water wastage, urging schools to replicate such designs to strengthen hygiene habits.

Dr. Torres warned that diseases such as typhoid, cholera, diarrhoea, COVID-19, and intestinal infections are often linked to poor sanitation practices. He stressed that while deworming campaigns are important, prevention through good hygiene is the most effective solution.

Spanish Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Jaime Moreno applauded the collaboration between Kenya and Spain, terming it a vital partnership that supports Kenya’s universal health coverage goals.

“This partnership goes beyond hygiene. It is a bridge of friendship between our countries that strengthens health, education, and development,” said the envoy.

Maragua MP Mary Wamaua, who hosted the event, said her office has partnered with Spain through the NG-CDF to construct modern toilets and handwashing facilities across schools in the constituency.

“When we enhance hygiene, we save on medical costs that can instead go toward development,” Wamaua said, adding that her office will continue to promote handwashing through Community Health Volunteers (CHVs).

She revealed plans to integrate rainwater harvesting into all new school projects to ensure a steady water supply for hygiene programs.

“We may have water challenges, but with proper harvesting systems, we can sustain cleanliness and health in our schools,” she added.

County Director of Health Dr. James Mburu underscored the urgency of modernizing school sanitation, citing rising cases of diarrhoea diseases among school-going children in Murang’a.

“The solution is not just awareness but ensuring every school has accessible and user-friendly handwashing facilities,” Dr. Mburu said.

He recommended the installation of wall-mounted soap dispensers, automatic taps, and water recycling systems to minimize wastage while promoting hygiene.

Health officers at the event also conducted live demonstrations on proper handwashing techniques using soap and running water, reminding parents and learners that simple daily habits can make a life-saving difference.

As the event concluded, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that all schools in Murang’a adopt modern, sustainable sanitation systems a step they say is crucial in reducing preventable diseases and building a healthier, more resilient generation.