By Burnett Munthali
This morning, the Ntcheu District Council officially launched a sanitation week aimed at improving cleanliness across the district, where basic sanitation coverage currently stands at 84 percent.
The week-long initiative, running until Friday next week, seeks to mobilize communities to adopt better hygiene practices and contribute to a cleaner environment. Speaking at the launch, the Council’s Chief Water Development Officer, Onances Nyirenda, called on residents to actively participate in the activities.
“This exercise is a collective effort to promote better hygiene practices in our communities. I urge everyone to join hands in making Ntcheu cleaner and healthier,” Nyirenda said.
Corporate support from NBS Bank
As part of its corporate social responsibility, NBS Bank has stepped in to support the initiative with a donation of essential sanitation equipment, including a wheelbarrow, shovel, and dustbin, among other items.
Speaking at the donation ceremony, NBS Bank’s Service Centre Manager, Marumbo Mkandawire, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to contributing to the well-being of the community.
“Sanitation is crucial for the health and prosperity of any community. Our donation is a small but significant contribution toward ensuring that Ntcheu is a clean and safe place for everyone,” Mkandawire said.
Community engagement key
The council emphasized that the success of the sanitation week depends on active community involvement. Activities lined up for the week include cleaning public spaces, promoting waste management practices, and raising awareness about hygiene.
Residents of Ntcheu have expressed optimism about the initiative. Many believe that it will not only improve the district’s sanitation but also encourage long-term behavioral changes in hygiene practices.
A step toward sustainability
With basic sanitation already at 84 percent, the sanitation week aims to bridge the remaining gap and lay the foundation for sustainable hygiene practices. The collaboration between the council, corporate entities like NBS Bank, and the community highlights the power of partnerships in achieving development goals.
As the week progresses, all eyes will be on the participation levels and the impact of this campaign in fostering a cleaner and healthier Ntcheu.
