The non-profit organisation Save Our Schools has partnered with Esor Construction to launch an initiative that aims to address the sanitation and safety crises in Kraaifontein.
In observance of World Toilet Day on 19 November, and the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November, the initiative will assist people in accessing safe sanitation and hygiene facilities.
Through addressing the sanitation crisis in Kraaifontein, specifically the area of Bloekombos, the partnership aims to restore dignity to residents of the informal settlement.
What is the sanitation crisis?
Across our country, the issue of people not having access to safe sanitation persists. It is estimated that over 65% of residents in informal settlements do not have proper access to sanitation.
On top of the sanitation crisis, the communal facilities available are often not used at night due to concerns about safety. Poor infrastructure and the absence of light create a dangerous environment for women.
This results in women and children having to find alternative solutions. Vulnerable people then have to defecate openly or use buckets and plastic bags.
What is the initiative?
As a means of combatting these issues, Save Our Schools will be installing motion-sensor solar lights in the largest ablution area to help women with their safety concerns when using the bathroom.
The project partner, Esor Construction, will help establish a new sanitary toilet facility in the area, including showers, over the coming year.
Wessel van Zyl, Esor Construction’s Chief Executive Officer, says that “Esor Construction is proud to be associated with Save Our Schools Non Profit Organisation, and assist in providing solutions to those in need within the areas we operate.”
“We have had a long-standing relationship with the City of Cape Town in delivering water and sanitation projects and are further cementing our footprint in the Western Cape through this collaboration with Save Our Schools Non Profit Organisation,” he continues.
“Providing sanitation solutions and restoring dignity to the communities is a win-win solution.”
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Picture: Unsplash
