1. Introduction:
This activity report provides an overview of our efforts to support the construction of five shared latrines in IDP settlements with a high influx of new displacements. The focus of this initiative was to ensure that the latrines are desludgeable, gender-sensitive, and accessible for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the elderly. The report highlights the objectives of the project, the challenges encountered, recommendations for improvement, and a conclusion summarizing the outcomes and future steps.
In the process of construction of the latrines with PWD (2mx2m), generally we started by digging a pit that is 3.6 cubic meters, because the nature of the land is different, in some places the pit cannot be dug down to 3 meters, so we made the size of the pit wider and longer by reducing the depth because of hard rock which is expensive to dig.
When a pit of 3.6 cubic meters was prepared, we made pit’s edge 60cm deep to build hollow concrete blocks, so that it would not collapse. After that, we built the structure, using two mesamurale wood as the column because the contractor didnt get the 70cm x 70cm wood in the market and shared it with Himilo engineer. We also used 2 by 2 wood which is 50cm x 50cm sawn timber wall ledgers and 30G corrugated iron was used for the walls and roof.
We also made 100mm thick reinforced concrete to the pit slab with 500mm×500mm manhole opening for desludging, inclusive of Y10 reinforcement @200mm C/C and shutter, and we also provide precast concrete manhole cover to the 500mm by 500mm opening with two handles made of R6 bar
After that we made a hand washing made up of welded steel and a frame that holds Jerry Can 20L with a water tab and installation of solar panel powered lamp inside the latrine.
We also made handrail for support of PWD and ceramic water closet with two grab bars for support PWD.
These latrines was constructed in two IDPs in Abudwak district, two in Mahad-alle IDP and three in Dayacan IDP.
2. Objectives:
The main objectives of the project were as follows:
– Construct five shared latrines to meet the sanitation needs of IDP settlements with a high influx of new displacements.
– Ensure that the latrines are designed to be desludgeable, promoting proper waste management and sanitation practices.
– Incorporate gender-sensitive features to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of women and girls.
– Make the latrines accessible and friendly for persons with disabilities and the elderly, ensuring inclusivity and equal access to sanitation services.
3. Challenges:
The land ownership issue surrounding the construction of toilets in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps refers to the challenge of determining and acquiring the necessary land rights to build sanitation facilities in these camps. IDP camps are temporary settlements that provide shelter for people who have been forced to flee their homes due to armed conflict, natural disasters, or other crises.
Constructing toilets in IDP camps is crucial for maintaining proper hygiene and preventing the spread of diseases. However, the process of obtaining land for such purposes can be complex and present various obstacles.
Moreover, a significant challenge faced during the construction of latrines for persons with disabilities in IDP camps is lack of availability of some materials used for construction of latrines.
4. Recommendations:
We suggest considering the use of locally available materials for constructing the latrines in IDP camps. Utilizing materials that are easily accessible in the area can facilitate the construction process and reduce logistical challenges.
However, it is important to ensure that the chosen materials meet the necessary strength and quality requirements to ensure the durability and safety of the constructed latrines. Balancing the availability of materials with their suitability for the activity is crucial.
By considering the use of locally available materials and addressing the challenges related to material procurement, the construction of latrines in IDP camps can be carried out more effectively, reducing potential delays and ensuring the timely provision of crucial sanitation facilities.
5. Conclusion:
The construction of five shared, desludgeable, gender-sensitive, and PWDs/age-friendly latrines in IDP settlements has made significant progress towards meeting the sanitation needs of displaced populations. The activity has demonstrated the importance of considering specific needs and vulnerabilities in the design and implementation of such latrines. However, ongoing efforts are required to address the remaining challenges and ensure the sustainability of these facilities. By incorporating the recommendations provided, future projects can build upon the lessons learned and contribute to improved living conditions and dignity for displaced populations.