Four youths active in Alex’s development are the latest recipients of LEADSA’s Hero of the Month Award.
Lukhanyo Nako, Candice Sehuma, Pearl Ngoasheng and Itumeleng Mothopeng were recognised for their organisation Building Blocks Foundation’s work to improve the health and hygiene conditions in the township. The work is exemplary by raising awareness of good hygiene through flush toilets they hope will replace the dreaded unsanitary and unsightly bucket toilet system currently operating in the townships.
Nako said the initiative restored their own, and the community’s, dignity which had been degraded for years by the poor and inhumane living conditions and toilets which were overused and not cared for by the overcrowded population. “Clean toilets are part of our health rights and a must despite social status. Communities should take it upon themselves to improve their conditions where authorities failed to do so or delay development projects. They should start their own initiatives which will encourage government to join in. It’s also a way of influencing the identification of development priorities.” he said.
Nako said the number of toilets constructed where increasing with the agreement of counsellors and the city which allowed them to connect the sewer and water mains.
He said it was heartening to see the community adopting the initiative which will reduce ill health and many preventable ailments. “Some adopt them [toilets] because customers don’t buy from businesses close to unsanitary toilets, in dirty environments and others are tired of going distances for better toilets especially at night when its unsafe.”
He added that the work also attracted other youths who want to do the same in their own areas and requested sponsorship for building materials and for equipment to hold workshops.
Nako outlines the following procedures for adopting the initiative;
Conduct a meeting with interested residents to confirm their needs and commitment.
Sign a petition for submission for the counsellor to construct the toilets.
Set a date for residents’ financial contributions and skills commitment.
Buy construction material with residents’ representatives.
Start construction with authorisation of council to connect to sewer and water mains.
Engage local artist to decorate the finished toilets as part of exposing their artistic skills.
Tshiamo Ndlovu of LEADSA said they chose the foundation for the award because of its structured and inspiring commitment to active citizenship. “Their story should be told to inspire others and hopefully they will get sponsorship,” he concluded.
Details: Candice Sehuma; 078 534 1351.
