PROPER access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene services in remote parts of Western Province is a challenge the provincial government cannot address on its own.
It needs government partners and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) to help improve these vital services.
Seeing this need, the Papua New Guinea – Australian Partnership Program has worked with the South Fly District to build a new sanitation facility at two primary schools in the district.
These facilities recently opened for use at Wipim Primary Schoola and Yamenga Community and they have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF). It is the result of local leaders and communities working together.
The ODF is a public health initiative aimed to help local communities improve sanitation and build toilet facilities that remain functional during periods of extreme weather events, including El Nino.
In Western province, the most commonly reported illnesses at the Daru General Hospital are waterborne diseases like typhoid and diarrhea.
This achievement will help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases and improve the health and wellbeing for families, especially children.
The new sanitation facility at Wipim Primary School will improve access to toilet and handwashing services for students and teachers. The facility is expected to strengthen hygiene practices, support student attendance and provide a safer and more dignified learning environment.
Wipim Primary School Head Teacher, Yorima Tigoma said the new facility would make a difference for students and teachers.
“The new toilets will improve hygiene, reduce time away from class and help students focus on their learning,” he said.
Sophie Gena from Yamenga community said having the facilities close by provides both safety and better health outcomes.
“In the past, we did not have toilets. Having a toilet near the house makes me feel safer. As a mother I know my children will now have a healthier life,” she said.
These achievements show how local partnerships can improve health, strengthen essential services and support better education outcomes for communities.
Australia is working together with the South Fly District Development Authority and District WASH Committee to improve water, sanitation and hygiene services in communities, schools and health facilities.
