The Kwara State Government is intensifying efforts towards ending open defecation particularly in underserved communities in the state.
General Manager of the State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency RUWASSA, Mr. Olorunfemi Oladipo, gave the assurance during an engagement with residents of Oko Olowo Araromi community in Ilorin South Local Government Area.
Open defecation is hazardous to the health of residents as it leads to the spread of diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, typhoid, dysentery, and hepatitis A.
It also increases child mortality due to diarrhea and related complications, while repeated infections as a result of open defecation leads to malnutrition.
In terms of environmental impact, open defecation pollutes rivers, streams, and groundwater making water unsafe for drinking, reduces agricultural productivity and lowers quality of life.
The RUWASSA GM commended the community for directly engaging with the agency.
He described the move as a positive step in tackling sanitation challenges through government–community collaboration.
Oladipo reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to promoting safe sanitation practices at the grassroots, pledging to address all complaints promptly.
Earlier, Deputy Vice President of Angua Tegbesun, Moshood Sanlaarin, raised concerns over the lack of basic WASH facilities in Akanbi Ward 5.
He noted that many of the 123 communities in the area still lack access to safe water and sanitation.
RUWASSA officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders attended the event.
