Sanitation and Hygiene Awareness Brings Change: Athumani’s Journey to Better Hygiene

In the past, the people of Nambahu village had little awareness of proper sanitation and hygiene, especially the importance of using improved latrines. Many households relied on basic structures lacking essential features such as a lockable door, walls, a roof and a washable floor. As a result, stomach infections, diarrhoea and other hygiene-related diseases were common, affecting the overall well-being of the community.

Athumani Mega Kupewa, 64, and his wife, Somoe Chande, 61, faced similar challenges. For years, they used a poorly constructed latrine that was uncomfortable and unsafe. They frequently suffered from stomach illnesses due to poor hygiene conditions. Additionally, a significant portion of their income went toward medical treatment, limiting their ability to invest in other family needs.

The old Latrine of Athumani’s family

Sanitation and Hygiene Education and a New Beginning

However, life took a positive turn when the DMDO, in partnership with World Vision Tanzania and Mtama District Council, introduced sanitation and hygiene marketing in the village. These sessions emphasized the importance of improved latrines, proper waste disposal, and maintaining cleanliness to prevent diseases. Inspired by what they learned, Athumani and his wife decided to make a change.

Building an Improved Latrine

“After attending the DMDO marketing, we realized how much our poor latrine was affecting our health. We decided to build a proper latrine, not just for comfort but for our well-being,”
– Athumani

Athumani’s new Latrine

With a budget of 785,000 Tanzanian shillings (US$300), they built an improved latrine that meets basic hygiene standards. Their new facility is safe, private and easy to clean. More importantly, their health has significantly improved, with far fewer cases of stomach infections. The money once spent on medical treatments is now used for other essential family needs.

Health and Financial Benefits

“Before, we would often fall sick and spend money on hospital visits. Now, we rarely get sick, and we can use that money for food and other needs in our home,”
– Somoe

With better health, Athumani and Somoe can now work longer hours on their farm without frequent interruptions from illness. This increased productivity has boosted their household income and food security.

“I feel strong now. Before, I would get tired quickly because of constant illnesses. But now, I can work on my farm the whole day without any problems,”
– Athumani

Athumani and his wife Somoe in front of their new Latrine

Community Transformation

Today, sanitation and hygiene awareness in Nambahu village has grown significantly, and more households are investing in improved latrines. The transformation has not only improved individual health but also strengthened the well-being of the entire community. Athumani and Somoe’s story is a powerful example of how education and proactive action can lead to a healthier, more dignified life.

A Note on DMDO’s Sanitation Marketing Approach

Athumani’s household improvements are part of the broader impact DMDO aims to achieve. While donor contributions fund the village’s water infrastructure, DMDO’s innovative Water Reinvestment Programme means that the DMDO can cover sanitation marketing and hygiene education independently of donor support. This model contributes to effectively doubling the impact of donor investments, ensuring that families like Athumani’s receive both clean water and the vital knowledge to maintain safe, hygienic living conditions.