UNICEF Extols Anambra State Govt On Sanitation, Hygiene

United Nations Children Fund, UNICEF has applauded Anambra State government for sanitation and hygiene maintenance in the State.
The commendation was made by the Deputy Representative of UNICEF, Nigeria, Rushnan Murtaza who paid a visit to Agbudu-ani Nando community, Anambra East L.G.A to inspect the WASH program in the community.

Onyinye Agubaeze reports that while welcoming the team, the Traditional ruler Agbudu-ani community, Igwe John Iwunor noted that since inception of the WASH program, the community has improved it’s sanitation and hygiene which have brought about good health to the people of the community.

While commending the community for the maintenance of their water supply system which has been in use for six years , the Program Manager RUWASA, Mr Emeka Okwuogu appreciated the UNICEF for its continued support towards promoting hygiene practices in the state.
In his remarks, the WASH Manager, UNICEF, Mamita Thakkar, noted that the community has all the components of a good WASH program, advocating more involvement of women and children in the WASH program as it depicts generational change.

The team also paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Government Partnership, Mark Okoye where the Deputy Representative, UNICEF, Rushnan Murtaza solicited for more priority to be placed on the social sector which involves water and sanitation to promotes healthy living in the society and called for the involvement of the private sector in the social sector investment.

The Commissioner while receiving the team, reiterated the Anambra State government continuous support to the UNICEF WASH program , noting that UNICEF has been a good partner working closely with the State especially in the social sector which includes education, sanitation and hygiene.
The commissioner noted that due to the Covid-19 pandemic which has led to a drop in the economy, fiscal budget is on review.

He however disclosed that there is a recovery plan instituted by the World Bank and other funding organisations and that the state is under a budget revision process towards getting the grant of over 10 to 15million dollar.

Also present at the event were, the UNICEF Chief Field officer Enugu, Ibrahim Conteh, Head partnership Commission Department, Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Government Partnership, Mrs Amaka Achebem and Media Desk Officer UNICEF, Mrs Franka Madike.