The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (LUWASH) program, has awarded grants of N1.72 billion to strengthen cholera prevention and control in Lagos State.

The funding, targeted at eight local organisations, was announced during a two-day workshop in Lagos, where the new beneficiaries received orientation and were formally brought into the programme.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Mr. James Racicot, the Chief of Party and USAID contractor for the Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (LUWASH) project noted that through the initiative, LUWASH aims to reduce cholera transmission, morbidity and mortality rates in Lagos. State.

He pointed out that LUWASH aims to drive behavioral change to prevent communicable diseases and improve WASH facilities, especially in low-income communities. “We have no doubt that you will all succeed with the proposals you have put forward,” Racicot assured the beneficiaries.

He explained that the beneficiaries were selected based on their ability to meet the overall objectives and results of LUWASH. Racicot advised them to make full use of the training and orientation provided, focusing on effective grant management to ensure successful implementation.

“The LUWASH activity is committed to engaging prominent and enthusiastic Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in Lagos and Nigeria, with plans to expand this engagement over the next few years.” said Racicot.

• He stressed that the efforts of these organizations will contribute significantly to the main objective of LUWASH to eradicate cholera outbreaks in Lagos State.
• Racicot outlined the components of USAID LUWASH work, which include improving water supply infrastructure, improving governance, and support for institutional stakeholders.
• He noted that the CAREVO fund, a grant program under contract, enables LUWASH to address targeted needs, some of which have emerged recently, while others have existed for years.

The beneficiaries

Grantees include the JAM Foundation, the Nigeria Equitable Access to Health Initiative, the Social Development Organization of Southern Sahara, the Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development, the Women’s Right to Education Programme, the Bread of Life Development Foundation, the Water and Sanitation Society and the Chamagne Foundation. .

These organizations are expected to play crucial roles in promoting sanitation and fighting cholera within vulnerable communities.

Beneficiaries are committed to cholera eradication efforts

Some beneficiaries have expressed their commitment to maximize the impact of the funds. Dr. Mimidoo Achakpa of the Women’s Right to Education Program outlined plans for increased advocacy and collaboration with local stakeholders to address cholera and build community capacity.

In addition, Mr. Julius Akwashiki of the JAM Foundation shared plans to revitalize an outdated faecal sludge treatment plant in Oregun, noting that Lagos’ population growth has intensified the demand for effective sanitation solutions.

“Our intervention will help control what is released into the environment, which will significantly reduce health risks.” Akwashiki said.

Expanding community awareness

Dr. Timothy Akinmurele of the Equitable Health Access Initiative explained that the grant will enable them to reach critical areas with cholera prevention education.

“Our project will target seven high-risk local government areas, reaching schools, markets and communities to address the causes and prevention of cholera.” Akinmurele stated, stressing the importance of educating the public to prevent the resurgence of the disease.

What you should know: USAID’s LUWASH program continues to engage prominent local organizations to address WASH challenges in Nigeria.

With these new grants, LUWASH expects significant progress towards a cholera-free Lagos, supported by sustained community engagement and infrastructure improvements.

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