22 households practice open defecation
Health inspectors and parish chiefs in Kyabugimbi Town Council, Bushenyi district have united to launch a village sensitization campaign aimed at addressing the persistent challenge of open defecation in the area.
During a recent baraza held at the Kyabugimbi Town Council grounds, residents of Greater Kyabugimbi Sub-county received important health related messages from Dr. Steven Twinomugisha Bwekingo, the Bushenyi District Health Officer disclosed that over 22 households within Kyabugimbi Town Council are practicing open defecation posing serious health risks to the community.
Dr. Twinomugisha emphasized the importance of community involvement urging local leaders especially LCs to conduct regular monitoring and household censuses to improve hygiene standards. He noted that many diseases reported at local health centers are linked to poor sanitation practices.
The event was also attended by Phiona Sanyu, the Chief Administrative Officer of Bushenyi District who commended the Western Ankole Civil Society Forum and other organizers for their efforts. She highlighted that such meetings play a vital role in strengthening citizen engagement and promoting public accountability.
Participants raised concerns about the frequent absenteeism of health workers at local health facilities and the practice of being referred to nearby drug shops to purchase medications, which they say hampers access to quality healthcare.
The campaign aims to foster greater community awareness and action to eliminate open defecation, thereby improving public health and sanitation in Kyabugimbi Sub-county.
