Access to Toilets Remains a Distant Hope for Millions Across Africa #WorldToiletDay

World Toilet Day serves as a critical reminder of the pressing need for clean and safe toilets, particularly within Africa. The United Nations highlights a concerning reality— progress is lagging significantly behind in the race to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of providing “safe toilets for all by 2030.” Currently, around 3.5 billion individuals across the globe are without access to basic sanitation.

In various African nations such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and Chad, inadequate toilet facilities force many people to resort to defecating in the open. This troubling situation has not only compromised dignity but also public health. Alarmingly, in the last decade alone, nearly 20 African nations have experienced multiple waves of cholera outbreaks, a direct consequence of poor sanitation infrastructure.

This year’s theme, “Toilets – A Place for Peace,” sheds light on the multifaceted challenges facing sanitation—ranging from armed conflicts and climate shifts to natural disasters and systemic indifference. It’s a call to action that urges governments and organizations to look beyond mere infrastructure and consider the broader implications of sanitation on human rights and quality of life.

To put things in perspective, imagine a scenario where basic needs like a clean toilet aren’t a given. As the renowned advocate *Sophie Turner* once said, “Clean spaces are not just about hygiene; they symbolize respect for humanity.” We often overlook that access to a clean toilet can dramatically impact a person’s health, dignity, and safety. With ongoing wars and climate chaos, the connection between these issues and sanitation struggles becomes even more vivid.

Consider the aftermath of natural disasters. When floods or earthquakes strike, existing sanitation systems can break down entirely. Communities that already lack proper toilet facilities find themselves slipping further into a pit of despair, facing increased risks of disease outbreaks. And it’s not just the disasters that threaten; conflicts often disrupt sanitation services, leaving populations vulnerable. In places like the Democratic Republic of Congo, where conflict is rampant, these vulnerabilities are exacerbated, leaving entire communities without basic sanitation services.

So, how can we turn the tide? Education and community engagement are pivotal. Advocating for hygiene education fosters awareness about the importance of sanitation. As *Mother Teresa* emphasized, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” This philosophy applies here—providing education and resources with compassion fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, leading to long-lasting change.

Moreover, it’s crucial for governments to prioritize sanitation in their budgets and policies. For instance, smart investments in infrastructure can yield significant returns—not only in health outcomes but also in economic productivity. A clean toilet contributes to a healthier workforce, which in turn boosts the economy. It’s all interconnected; show me a community that invests in sanitation, and I’ll show you a thriving community.

Additionally, collaboration is key. Organizations, governments, and communities must band together to design solutions tailored to local contexts. The fight for sanitation transcends borders; it’s a global issue requiring unified action. Every action counts, no matter how small. Whether planting seeds of awareness through social media or supporting local projects, we can each play a role.

In summary, World Toilet Day invites us to rethink the significance of toilets in our lives. It’s not just about a place to relieve oneself; it’s about human dignity, health, and peace. Poor sanitation doesn’t just affect individuals; it reverberates through entire communities. To end on a resonant note from *Nelson Mandela*, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Let’s work together to transform the impossible into possible, ensuring safe sanitation for everyone, everywhere.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring