Habitat for Humanity Uganda and KCCA Launch Sanitation Upgrade at Owino Market

Owino Market, a bustling center of commerce in Uganda, is set to receive a significant upgrade in its sanitation infrastructure through a collaborative effort between Habitat for Humanity Uganda (HFHU) and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).

The market, which sees an estimated 80,000 traders, vendors, and customers daily, currently faces a severe sanitation crisis with only two toilet blocks housing a total of 40 stances. This necessitates an overwhelming burden on the existing facilities, with each stance serving over 2,000 individuals.

Henry Kaula, KCCA’s Public Health and WASH Manager, highlighted the critical need for intervention, stating that the current facilities are not only inadequate but have also deteriorated over time. “More than 80,000 people rely on these sanitation facilities every day. The pressure on the existing infrastructure is enormous, creating challenges related to hygiene, maintenance, and public health,” Kaula explained.

To address this pressing issue, HFHU, under its Home Equals Campaign supported by Habitat for Humanity International, is funding the comprehensive rehabilitation of one of the market’s dilapidated toilet blocks. This renovation will transform a facility with 20 stances, dedicating 10 for women and 10 for men, while also enhancing accessibility, safety, and hygiene standards.

MoseNax Ltd has been engaged as the construction firm, with the project anticipated to be completed within 45 working days. The upgrade will also include the installation of essential handwashing stations and a water storage system to promote better hygiene practices.

“Access to safe, clean, and dignified sanitation is a fundamental human right,” remarked Daphne Mandhawun, WASH Specialist at Habitat for Humanity Uganda. “Through this intervention, we aim not only to improve the condition of the facilities but also to enhance the health, safety, and well-being of the thousands of people who depend on Owino Market every day.”

While this initiative marks a crucial step forward, stakeholders acknowledge that continued investment in urban sanitation is vital to meet the growing needs of the market’s extensive user base. Further expansions and ongoing maintenance will be necessary for sustainable improvements.

This initiative was reported by Nile Post.