Waterkeeper Alliance is working with Uganda Lake Victoria Waterkeeper and Lake Kyoga Waterkeeper to protect vulnerable communities from the spread of COVID-19 with the installation of permanent handwashing stations needed to prevent the spread of disease. The Waterkeepers will create COVID-19 Task Forces in 40 fishing villages to construct and maintain 80 permanent handwashing stations equipped with soap and water, and provide temperature guns for village health teams to protect 24,300 people.
The spread of COVID-19 has forced Ugandans to close businesses and leave many families without income. Communities need reliable access to clean water and soap to properly wash their hands - the main prevention against coronavirus. Compounding the crisis, households in fishing villages around the lakes have flooded due to recent heavy rain falls and increased water levels. They are without adequate facilities and at even greater risk of contracting COVID-19, in addition to diarrhea and cholera.
Permanent handwashing stations with a reliable supply of clean water and plenty of soap will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. With community led task forces to build and maintain the stations and distribute educational materials, and equipment provided to ensure the safety of those using the communal handwashing stations, this project will result in improved lives and livelihoods for 24,300 people in 40 fishing villages.
Permanent handwashing stations will provide Ugandans who live around Lakes Kyoga and Victoria with the tools needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and help community members decrease the spread of other debilitating diseases like diarrhea and cholera. Improved access to clean water and hygiene practices will improve health, lives, and livelihoods. Ultimately, Waterkeepers and their communities will increase awareness of their important work to protect the health of Africa's great lakes.