By Wajir Today Reporter
A total of 25 villages in Dela Anole Ward, Eldas Sub-County, have been officially declared open defecation free (ODF), marking a major milestone in the county’s drive towards improved sanitation and disease prevention.
The declaration follows a successful community-led total sanitation initiative spearheaded by Wajir County Public Health officials.
Through sustained advocacy and sensitisation, residents embraced the campaign by constructing household toilets and abandoning the practice of open defecation.
Speaking during the celebration, Rukia Maalim, Chief Officer for Public Health and Sanitation, lauded the community’s commitment.
“As the public health fraternity, we are here to celebrate a milestone. Twenty-five villages in Dela/Anole Ward have achieved open defecation free status. This means every household has voluntarily constructed their own toilet.”
Echoing her sentiments, County Public Health Officer Ibrahim Mohamed highlighted the wider impact of the achievement.
“This will contribute to environmental cleanliness, improved sanitation, and a reduction in waterborne diseases. Building over 2,500 toilets is no small feat and demonstrates true community resilience.”
On his part, Mohamed Hassan, Director of Public Health and Sanitation, emphasised the health benefits.
“Wajir is among the regions most affected by diarrhoeal diseases, with recurrent cholera outbreaks. With such interventions, we will significantly reduce waterborne and sanitation-related diseases.”
The success in Dela/Anole Ward is expected to inspire similar initiatives across Wajir County, supporting the broader goal of ensuring healthy, resilient, and hygienic communities.
