Belize: Primary schools in rural Toledo receives handwashing stations

Belize: The government of Belize, in its official press statement, notified that Twenty-nine handwashing stations were donated to the Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW) in cooperation with UNICEF Belize as part of the Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Program managed by the WASH Multi-Sectoral Body.

Notably, at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic last year, the MOHW engaged with teachers and principals in Toledo who showed their concerns and requirements around access to clean water.

On July 16, 2021, the ministry officially acquired the stations in the presence of principals of some of the schools that will be recipients.

The handwashing stations will work as additional care for 29 primary schools in 29 rural communities in Toledo, providing enhanced handwashing options for the benefit of the students. These handwashing stations will better provide the schools to prepare for the reopening of the next school year.

Michel Chebat, Minister of Health & Wellness, showed his appreciation to UNICEF for the timely donation. He noted the significance of the contribution in emphasising the message of handwashing, as this remains the simplest act in reinforcing the fight against coronavirus.

Ms. Denise Robateau, early childhood development and education officer for UNICEF, spoke on the WASH Program and the role they performed in assuring the wash stations were built and properly distributed to deserving schools. She also showed her gratitude for the collaboration.

The WASH Multi-Sectoral Body, spearheaded in part by the Ministry of Health & Wellness, was formed after the MOHW demanded support from UNICEF in the development of a WASH proposal to complement water systems in rural Belize.

The purpose of the multi-sectoral body is for the enhancement of partnerships to promote the advancement of resources, knowledge, and expertise in WASH as a key advocate for children and vulnerable communities.

In addition, the wash stations were built by Cortez Limited in St. Matthew’s Village, Cayo District.