Clare
The Parish Priest Kanyabacope, Rev. Fr. Ronald Kawooya CSC, has urged the residents of Kyarusozi to prioritize sanitation and hygiene by maintaining clean toilets and pit latrines at all times.
Fr. Kawooya, made these remarks during an event organized by the Kyenjojo district at the Kanyabacope parish premises to mark a belated World Water and Sanitation Day, which followed a sanitation week in the area, that highlighted concerns regarding poor sanitation and health practices in the community.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Catholic Church and the government in promoting good health. Drawing on the teachings of Pope Francis’ letter Laudato si’, Fr. Kawooya encouraged everyone to care for and make good use of the environment, aligning with the Church’s current efforts.
To ensure the success of health and cleanliness programs, Fr. Kawooya shared that the Parish has appointed health leaders within small Christian communities to continue motivating residents to live in healthier environments.
Poor sanitation attributed to Lack of Water & Health Facilities
During the same event, Denis Nyakoojo, LCIII Chairman of Kyarusozi Sub-County, expressed concerns about the long distances residents have to travel to access healthcare services and the increasing prevalence of waterborne diseases due to the lack of clean, safe water.
James Akugizibwe, who leads the Kyenjojo District Health Inspection Team, reported that their week-long inspection had resulted in a significant improvement in sanitation, with the availability of sanitary facilities like Pit Latrines increasing from 50% to 80%.
Patrick Siisa, the Chairperson Council of Laity Kanyabacope Catholic parish, called on both local and central governments to urgently address two critical issues hindering progress in sanitation and hygiene in the area, including the lack of a health facility and access to clean water.
Gilbert Rubaihayo, the Kyenjojo LCV Chairman and Chief Guest who explained the reason of taking celebrations to Kyarusozi as poor sanitation record in the locality, acknowledged the challenges faced by the community but encouraged local leaders to follow the proper channels when advocating for the region’s needs.
