A Journey of Change and Hope: Celebrating an Open Defecation-Free Chibwika Chiefdom

Sanitation and hygiene remain a huge problem for most rural communities in Zambia. According to the 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey, 33 percent of the population uses a basic sanitation service, 24 percent has access to basic hygiene services, and 10 percent practices open defecation. 

World Vision Zambia, in partnership with UNICEF Zambia and Chibwika Chiefdom, has been working to improve sanitation and hygiene behaviours by conducting awareness and encouraging communities to build pit latrines in 137 villages.

On September 27, 2024, 137 villages were declared Open Defecation-Free (ODF). This was a moment of pride and joy for the entire community, marking a significant achievement in improving sanitation and hygiene for over 4,101 households. The celebratory event brought together traditional leaders, government officials, and development partners who have played a crucial role in this success.

Speaking at the celebration, the Guest of Honour, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Hon. Collins Nzovu, applauded the community's effort and commitment. He emphasized the importance of sustaining the ODF status.

“While today is a day of celebration, let us remember that our work is not yet complete. Sustaining our ODF status requires ongoing effort, vigilance, and education. We must continue to promote good hygiene practices, maintain our facilities, and educate future generations about the importance of sanitation,” Hon. Nzovu said. "Government will work and walk the entire journey with you."

Five traditional leaders, including Senior Chief Nalubamba of the Tonga-speaking people of Namwala district, attended the event. The Area Member of Parliament and many other key stakeholders witnessed the achievement.

World Vision Zambia, a key partner in this journey, was represented by Senior Programmes Manager Charles Phiri. He expressed his admiration for the community's dedication to achieving ODF status.

“This ODF celebration is a significant milestone for the 137 villages in this chiefdom and the 4,101 households that have played a crucial role in reaching this goal. It is a testament to your hard work, commitment, and perseverance. Together, you have shown that when communities come together with a shared vision, great things are possible," Phiri said.

He added that achieving ODF status is not just about building latrines or providing sanitation facilities but about changing mindsets and behaviours to ensure these changes last for generations. "It is about empowering communities to take charge of their health and well-being, and this is exactly what you have done," he added.

Minister Nzovu acknowledged the importance of partnerships in achieving such milestones. 

“As a government, we pride ourselves on partnerships because we understand that the fight to end poverty requires various players. Let me take this opportunity to appreciate the efforts of World Vision Zambia, who are instrumental in driving community development in over 75 districts,” he said. 

He further highlighted World Vision’s role in providing clean drinking water, improved sanitation, child protection, maternal health services, and quality education.

One of the most touching moments of the celebration came when 16-year-old Charity, a child representative from the chiefdom, shared her personal experience.

"One of the things that always scared me was having to go to the bush whenever I needed to relieve myself," Charity said. "It wasn’t just the long walk or the darkness at night that scared me, but also the fear of encountering dangerous animals, snakes, or getting bitten by insects."

Her fear started to fade when World Vision Zambia arrived in her village. "They didn’t just bring us hope; they brought real solutions," she recalled. "I remember the meetings they held with our parents, the lessons they taught us at school about hygiene, and how to stay safe from diseases. They also worked closely with our village leaders and the entire community to help us build proper toilets. It was hard work, but we did it together."