Lokapel – 15th October 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
The Turkana County Government marked Global Handwashing Day with a focus on raising awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in reducing infection risks and improved health outcomes.
Organized by the Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Services, the county’s main event took place in Lokapel, Turkana South Sub-county, with additional events held in Turkana Central’s Lomopus and Kakuma in Turkana West.
In her speech, the County Chief Officer (CCO) for Preventive and Promotive, Cathra Abdi, stressed the significance of hand hygiene, stating that “maintaining clean hands is a collective responsibility that safeguards public health, prevents infections, and enhances overall well-being.”
She emphasized that preventive health begins with basic hygiene, and by making handwashing a regular habit, communities can significantly improve their overall health.
The CCO for Medical Services, Dr Ezekiel Etelej, highlighted that handwashing as a simple yet highly effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, urging it to become a daily practice.
The Director for Preventive and Promotive, Alfred Emanman Ikeny, remarked that the event was part of a larger strategy to promote public health. He added that the directorate is working closely with local authorities and partners to ensure every household in the county has access to clean water and soap.
As the guest of honor in Lomopus, Sub-county Administrator Esther Kiyonga encouraged community health promoters to help residents set up more handwashing stations and provide education on proper handwashing practices.
In Kakuma, Assistant County Commissioner Sheila Musilwa noted that the event serves as a reminder of the critical role hand hygiene plays in promoting public health and reducing the spread of infectious diseases.
Global Handwashing Day is observed every year on 15th October, with this year’s theme being “Why Are Clean Hands Still Important?”
Partner organizations present at the event included USAID Nawiri, LOKADO, Welt Hunger Hilfe, IsraAid, Peace Winds Japan, PLAN International, Water Mission, Team and Team International, Malteser International, ADRA Kenya, UNHCR Kenya, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the International Rescue Committee.
