WaterAid Burkina Faso contributes to the fight against cholera

As per September 16th 2005, the Health Ministry recorded 864 cholera cases resulting in 11 deaths country wide.

In the central region, there were 830 cases including 9 deaths.

To address this epidemic cholera situation, WaterAid Burkina Faso has officially organised a ceremony at the Central Region Health Office to support a state service equip with disinfectants for cholera control.

A modest donation worth CFA 500,000 was made up of 240l of Grésil disinfectant, 200l of liquid soap and 120l of bleach water.

As the government officials announced the first cholera cases in the country, WaterAid, in order to contribute to the control of this disease, has immediately got in touch with the relevant structures to find out about their plan. 

During the ceremony, WaterAid Burkina Faso's Country Representative reminded attendees that cholera epidemics relates to hygiene practices and behaviour.

This donation he said is an evidence of how much his organisation is concerned about the issue.  He then added that "undoubtedly, WaterAid's preferred intervention areas are hygiene and sanitation and he observed that failure to respect these practices brings about sicknesses such as diarrhoeas and mainly cholera which is currently rife in Burkina Faso".  

Doctor SANOU, deputy Director for the Central region showed his ultimate satisfaction and gratitude to WaterAid when he stated that "WaterAid has been the first NGO countrywide to show interest right when the first cases were diagnosed and this proves their commitment to fighting poverty.

"The material received will contribute - there is no doubt- to our daily fight against cholera" he continued.  He thereafter concluded wishing the reinforcement of partnership between WaterAid and the Central Region Health Office.

Because the Country Programme is not willing to stop in such a good momentum, WaterAid Burkina Faso has planned the implementation of additional actions including, sensitisation campaigns together with WASH (in Boulkiemde province which is affected by the disease) and a TV discussion programme on hygiene and sanitation issues.

This particular incidence of cholera in Burkina Faso comes to remind us of the work that still needs to be done on hygiene and sanitation.

Behaviour change and practices within communities are absolutely necessary to enjoy a safe and risk- free life.