NAROK, Kenya — Olokurto ward in Narok County has been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF), a significant public health milestone. The Department of Public Health in Narok County conferred this status following confirmation that every homestead in Olokurto had constructed a pit latrine.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Narok Chief Officer in charge of Preventive and Promotive Health, praised the residents for complying with public health regulations to enhance hygiene in the area. Kashu emphasized the importance of building latrines in preventing communicable diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, amoeba, typhoid, and vomiting. She also challenged other wards in the county to achieve 100 percent toilet coverage, noting that Olokurto ward is the first in the sub-county to attain ODF status.
The Chief Officer acknowledged the significant role of community health promoters in disseminating outreach messages and assisting residents in constructing toilets. Edward Tankoi, the County Director of Public Health, revealed that only six out of 30 wards in Narok have achieved ODF status. These include Ilkerin, Kapsosian, Ongata Barikoi, Olomasani, and Sagamian wards.
Tankoi recounted the challenges encountered in the journey to achieving ODF status, including inadequate funding, which limited the mobility of Community Health Promoters, and initial resistance from a community skeptical about the value of building latrines.
Benson Manyuele, the Chief of Naituyupaki sub-location, confirmed that all homesteads in his area have constructed pit latrines and vowed to continue monitoring to ensure compliance. The function was also attended by Francis Kiio, Narok Director of Health, and a team of medics from the Narok County Referral Hospital.
During the celebrations, Olokurto ward was presented with a certificate of recognition. Additionally, Peter Sanare and Evans Kusero were honored for their pivotal roles in advocating for toilet construction in the ward. The event also provided residents with various medical services, including the administration of family planning drugs, deworming tablets, and vitamin A supplements for children.