South Sudan marks International Hand Washing Day with Call for improved Hygiene

South Sudan joined the global community on Monday in celebrating the International Hand Washing Day, an initiative aimed at promoting hand washing with soap at critical times to combat diseases.
Rose Poni is demonstrating hand washing inside her house in Hai Jalaba on Monday [photo credit Jenifer James ]

By Jenifer James

South Sudan joined the global community on Monday in celebrating the International Hand Washing Day, an initiative aimed at promoting hand  washing with soap at critical times to combat diseases.

Rose Poni, a resident of Hai –Jalaba suburb in Juba, who was in attendance during the ceremony told The Dawn that routine handwashing is a means to promote not only hygiene but also prevention of diseases.

With a lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities, South Sudan faces ongoing outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections.

Poni has been at the forefront of efforts to educate children and mothers about the significance of proper hand hygiene in Hai -Jalaba..

“Handwashing is not just a routine; it’s a life-saving practice, in a place where resources are scarce, this simple act can prevent illness and save lives,” she disclosed.

Poni noted that many families are unaware of how germs are spread, especially in rural areas where traditional practices often overshadow health education.

“Many believe that if they feel fine, they don’t need to wash their hands. But germs are invisible, and they can be harmful,” she said.

 The 2024 Hand Washing Day celebrated annually on October 15 will be held under the theme, “Why Are Clean Hands Still Important?”

The day is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of hand washing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases.

“I always wash my hands after using the toilet and before eating,” he explained. “It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in protecting myself and my family from illness. I have seen many people suffer from diseases that could have been prevented with proper hygiene,” said John Wani, another resident of Hai-Jalaba.

Wani said that consistent hand washing practice remains a challenge for many in the country.

“We need to make this a habit, especially for our children. Teaching them to wash their hands can help them stay healthy for years to come,” he said.

As South Sudan continues to navigate its numerous challenges, Rose Poni remains committed to advocating for handwashing as a fundamental practice for health, hoping to instill a culture of hygiene that can make a lasting impact on the well-being of the communities.

The first Global Handwashing Day was held in 2008, when over 120 million children around the world washed their hands with soap in more than 70 countries. Since 2008, community and national leaders have used Global Handwashing Day to spread the word about handwashing, build sinks and tippy taps, and demonstrate the simplicity and value of clean hands. Since then, Global Handwashing Day has continued to grow.

Global Handwashing Day is endorsed by governments, schools, international institutions, civil society organizations, NGOs, private companies, individuals, and more.

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