Ughandi ‘B’ Water Project Muhuvi School Pit Latrines.

Project for 2009

Having successfully completed the water project in 2008 we didn’t anticipate further work in Ughandi ‘B’ but in January 2009 a donor came forward wishing to fund a water or sanitation related project in the village. The donor was particularly interested in tying this idea in with the local Primary School if we could oversee the project. So we instructed Hapa an NGO in Singida Town 45km away to make enquires on our behalf. Various meetings were held with the village and school committees and a decision was reached that a block of toilets would be built consisting of ten boys latrines, nine girls latrines and a shower room for girls.

During April work began with contributions coming from Ughandi ‘B’ and it’s’ surrounding communities. Local artisans and materials were used in the construction with each sub village having a specified time to work on the project. Hapa engineers and representatives were on hand to give instructions. Throughout the following months we were kept informed of progress by email. Finally child to child training was given to the pupils to ensure they have a better understanding of good hygiene.

In August 2009 Richard and I were invited to Muhuvi School for a special handing over ceremony organized by the community and attended by local government figures and Hapa staff. The latrines were near completion at this time and we were able to inspect them. A section for urinals had been added to the original plan along with two toilets for disabled pupils. Although there is no water source at Muhuvi School, Elimu pump is about a ten minute walk away and the project will provide a special water carrier for collection from that point.

Construction took place between April and September

One of the meetings which took place between Hapa and the community leaders

Blocks prepared by local people for use in construction showing old latrine in the background

Muhuvi School pupils at a parade day during building

Pit latrine excavated by the community

Reinforcement slabs made in the village

Base in first stage of construction

Pit latrines begin to take shape

Old latrines in front of the new structure

Final stage of construction took place during August 2009

August 2009 the latrines were handed over to Muhuvi School in a special ceremony attended by local and area government officials, community members, school pupils, Hapa and us

This is the second ceremony Richard and I have attended. Some of the men were dressed as women
which brought laughter from everyone. We were presented with gifts, a kitenge cloth and beaded belt
for me and a tribal spear with shield for Richard!