The Success Story of a 2023 WASH Project in Primary Schools: A Tale of Transformation

In Mumias East Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya, several schools are grappling with inadequate water and sanitation facilities, posing health risks and hindering educational opportunities. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention.

15 primary schools from the Mumias East sub-county were prioritised for the WE REACH WASH project in 2023. These schools were presented by the sub-county education officer, and they participated in the baseline survey. Out of the 15 schools, 10 schools that registered a significant high case count among the students were selected to partner with WE REACH in this one-year project.

The WASH project placed a strong emphasis on educational empowerment. The BoM and Head teachers were trained on WASH issues in schools and their roles and responsibilities. Training sessions on hygiene promotion, handwashing techniques, and menstrual health management were conducted for students, teachers, and the BoM, fostering a culture of hygiene consciousness within the school community. Interactive activities, such as health clubs and drama performances, served as effective tools for disseminating crucial information and instilling behavioural change.

The impact of the WASH project on the health and well-being of students was profound. With access to clean water and improved sanitation facilities, instances of waterborne illnesses plummeted, leading to a noticeable decrease in absenteeism due to illness. Moreover, the adoption of proper hygiene practices translated into a reduction in the spread of contagious diseases, benefiting not only students but also their families and the wider community.

There was a 72% reduction in water-related illnesses, a 77% reduction in menstrual issues, and 69% reduction in skin and oral infections from the total cases at the beginning of the year 2023 to the total cases at the end of the year 2023.

Success Stories

The success of the WASH project is best illustrated through the feedback of some individuals who we were privileged to have worked with:

“I want to appeal to WE REACH to continue being in touch with us, you can come and check on us so that we can continue improving our hygiene and sanitation. I also want to report that the diarrhoea infections have been minimised as a result of improved hygiene and sanitation around the school. If girls had period stains during their menses, they had to go home, now they have a changing room where they can clean up and go back to class.” Mr. Makokha Simeon (Eshisenye Pri School) Head Teacher

“I applaud WE REACH for the WASH project; thus far, I have heard nothing but good things from parents whose children have passed on to them the skills they learned from WE REACH training. The only problem we have is the administration’s delay in allocating funds to purchase the supplies required for school-based soap production.” Mr. Andrew Mwima (Mahola Pri School) is a BoM Member

“We had a lot of stomach problems back then and no handwashing stations. However, since the learners started washing their hands regularly, preventable illnesses like diarrhoea have decreased, and school attendance has improved.” Madam Carolyn Vusulu (Maraba Pri School) Teacher Health Champion

"We, the health club members, are the first to encourage fellow learners to wash hands, use the trash bin, and clean toilets so that everyone can use a school that is clean every day. The health club members also have music, dance, and drama used to increase WASH awareness within the school and community. The health club members who participated in the YPP program run by WE REACH learned how to make soap that is used at the school’s various hand washing stations.” Patience Makotswe (Eshisenye Primary School) Health Club member

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate the success of the WASH project in schools in 2023, it is imperative to acknowledge that our work is far from over. Sustaining the gains made requires continued investment, monitoring, and capacity building. Moreover, we are replicating the model in the other 10 schools in the Mumias East sub-county this year. The success stories shared above demonstrate the transformative potential of WASH projects in schools and communities. By addressing the root causes of poor health and hygiene practices and engaging stakeholders at all levels, these initiatives can create lasting change and improve the quality of life for millions of people worldwide. As we continue to advocate for universal access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, let these stories serve as inspiration and motivation to strive for a healthier, more equitable future for all.