The World Health Organization (WHO) joined the Ministry of Health and other Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) stakeholders in Uganda to launch the 2025 National Sanitation Week under the theme “Sanitation for Dignity and Inclusiveness.” The launch took place in Katanga, on the outskirts of Kampala city.
During the sanitation week, stakeholders will engage in various activities to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation and promote best practices. These activities will include community clean-up campaigns and educational workshops, among others. The WASH partners will work closely with local leaders, schools, and community organizations to reach different communities nationwide. This will help prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, and typhoid, and improve the overall health and well-being of communities.
Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero urged communities to take charge of their sanitation to prevent diseases. To symbolize the launch, Dr Aceng, alongside other guests, including WHO Programme Management Officer Dr. Suraj Man Shrestha, planted symbolic trees. Other activities included a mass cleaning exercise of the surrounding community and free TB screening.
Sanitation is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health. Access to clean and safe sanitation facilities is crucial for maintaining health, preventing disease, and promoting dignity. However, poor WASH conditions still account for more than one million diarrhoeal deaths every year globally and constrain effective prevention and management of other diseases including malnutrition, neglected tropical diseases and cholera.
According to the 2021 Uganda Bureau of Statistics National Service Delivery report, domestic waste was the most generated type of waste in Ugandan communities, accounting for 53%.
WHO remains committed to supporting governments and partner-led activities geared towards improving sanitation. “We call upon all Ugandans to take responsibility for their sanitation and work together to create cleaner, healthier communities. Let us embrace the spirit of inclusiveness and ensure that no one is left behind,” said Dr. Shrestha.
