On The Ground - July/August ‘24
Club of Leaders (CoL)
The Malembe Rise (MR) team, in partnership with the students, has successfully formed focus groups that include parents, church leaders, local hygiene agents, NGO leaders, and community leaders. The objective was to engage these diverse stakeholders in accompanying the students as they develop a strategic plan to enhance hygiene projects at Hebrone School and its surrounding areas. Mr. Dany, a member of the MR staff, expressed his enthusiasm: “I really liked the idea of involving members of the community in thinking about this initiative that the students of the club have taken to promote the use of ash in the community. I also liked to see the presence of community members responding to the students' invitation because this demonstrates their consideration and commitment to everything the students do.”
In August, a group of students from the Club of Leaders visited local chemist Papa Gaby to learn the art of soap making from ash. Papa Gaby led them through the initial stage of the process, where they created lye, an essential ingredient for soap. He promised that at their next session, the students will continue the process and learn how to turn the lye into finished soap.
CoL and PAEV/UNICEF
The PAEV/UNICEF initiative has made significant progress, nearing completion of their sanitized school project with approximately 90% of the work done. This project aims to ensure that every student has access to clean water, hygienic toilets, and adequate handwashing facilities. To manage and sustain this project, an 18-member committee has been established to oversee the three water points. The committee’s responsibility includes managing the water points and ensuring that all funds generated from water sales are saved specifically for the maintenance of the wells. This approach not only provides immediate benefits but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the sanitation facilities, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining a healthy and hygienic environment for the students.
