UNICEF Leads Call to Action for an Open Defecation-Free Kaduna State
A concerted effort is needed to eradicate open defecation in Kaduna State, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Cristian Munduate, UNICEF’s representative in Nigeria, made this call at a recent event held with the Kaduna State Government, aimed at making the state open defecation-free.
The benefits of improved sanitation extend far beyond immediate health outcomes, contributing to broader sustainable development goals such as education, gender equality, and poverty reduction, Munduate explained. However, the state still faces challenges that must be addressed to accelerate progress across the remaining 14 local governments. While the construction of improved toilets in validated local governments is impressive, at 90 per cent on average, it is concerning that only about 30 per cent of the state’s population resides in these Open Defecation-Free (ODF) LGAs.
Munduate highlighted that numerous studies have shown open defecation to be a significant contributor to the spread of diarrhoeal diseases, infant mortality, malnutrition, and increased poverty. UNICEF is committed to providing support to ensure access to quality initiatives such as the ‘Use the Toilet’ campaign, which aims to end open defecation in Nigeria by 2025.
The challenge is significant, with approximately 619,000 people in Kaduna State, representing six per cent of the population, still practicing open defecation and exposing themselves to associated dangers. However, UNICEF believes that with collective commitment, the dream of an open defecation-free Kaduna State can be achieved.
Kaduna State Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening political will to eradicate open defecation entirely. The government has already made progress, with nine local government areas validated as ODF, representing 39.1 per cent of the local governments. The Deputy Governor emphasized the importance of sanitation in schools, ensuring safe and dignified facilities support children’s education and health.
The journey towards open defecation-free is underway, and UNICEF is calling on stakeholders to join forces to ensure access to quality sanitation services, ultimately promoting a healthier and more dignified life for all citizens in Kaduna State.