BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
More than a decade after devastating floods swept through the North Guadalcanal plains in 2014, communities are seeing lasting change thanks to new sanitation facilities provided by Non-Government Organizations (NGOs).
Thomas Douman, a local resident of Popoloi, recalls how life was before the support arrived.
“We usually used dry pits to excrete, because we worried about our health,” he explained.
Families dug pits far from the village to avoid the smell and contamination, but the practice was inconvenient and unsafe, especially for children.
That changed when NGOs including, Live and Learn, ADRA, through UNICEF WASH program and government partners stepped in. Their efforts brought boreholes and proper toilets to the community, marking a turning point in daily life.
“Since we have these new toilets, that is one of the things we see as a big change in our community.
“In the past, we had to go far away. Now, the facilities are near our doorsteps, making life more convenient.” Douman said.
Parents have noticed the difference most clearly in their children.
“For now, they feared the bush when nature called. Now, they run to the toilet rooms,” Douman added.
Mr Douman said the new infrastructure has improved hygiene, reduced health risks, and fostered a sense of dignity.
Douman expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“I want to thank the NGOs and the government who came down to see our needs and help us. What they did has started to change our lives,” he said.
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