Narok: Access to safe water, proper sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) remains a critical challenge in schools, especially in rural and marginalized areas in Narok County. The community of Siana Ward gathered at Ilpoori Primary and Junior School in Narok West Sub-County to mark this year's WASH in Schools (WinS) Festival under the theme 'A Clean and Safe Learning Environment is a Right for Every Child.'
According to Kenya News Agency, the event was graced by Mrs. Agnes Ntutu, the spouse to the Narok Governor, who emphasized the county's commitment to improving the health and dignity of learners through sustainable WASH programs. "Every child deserves to learn in a safe and healthy environment," said Mrs. Ntutu. "We are proud of the strides made so far, but we must do more to ensure that no child is left behind due to lack of basic sanitation and hygiene facilities."
She was accompanied by the CECM for Education, Robert Simotwo, and Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health Services, Lucy Kashu. Mr. Simotwo echoed the urgency of addressing WASH gaps in schools, particularly in Narok's rural regions. "We cannot talk about quality education without addressing the hygiene and sanitation needs of our learners," Simotwo said. "The County Government remains committed to working with all partners to provide a clean, safe, and dignified learning environment."
The County Government of Narok, in collaboration with the National Government and development partners, is actively promoting WASH-friendly schools through various initiatives. One key initiative is the 100% WASH Project, currently being implemented by Amref Health Africa in Narok West and Transmara West sub-counties. Led by WASH Programme Manager Daniel Kurao, the project supports 54 schools and their surrounding communities by upgrading sanitation infrastructure and driving behavioral change. "We believe in a holistic approach to WASH," said Kurao. "It's not just about building facilities-it's about creating a culture of health and dignity both at school and at home."
Other partners supporting the WASH in Schools programme include Well-Fair and key County departments such as Health, Education, Environment, Water, and Climate Change. The WinS Fest serves as both a celebration and a call to action, reminding stakeholders that access to clean water and sanitation is not a luxury but a fundamental right for every child.