Clean water, basic toilets and good hygiene practices are essential for survival and development.
The Enga Provincial Government, in recognition of this vital service, recently opened a new state of the art public bathroom facility in Wabag town. The K2 million project, located in the center of town, is now open to the use of the public.
While Papua New Guinea has made progress in improving access to water and sanitation facilities, there is still work to be done.
Most cities and towns in PNG lack basic public relief facilities, forcing the vast majority of people who flock into towns daily, to resort to other unhygienic practices.
The recent opening of the shower and lavatory facilities in Wabag town is the first of its kind, and serves a greater purpose of ensuring safe health and hygiene practices.
The Government’s Water and Sanitation Health Policy 2015-2030, indicates that fifty-seven percent of urban dwellers and only thirteen percent of the country’s rural population have access to basic sanitation.
Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas urged his people to use the facilities wisely, for their own good and encouraged the people to change their attitude, as development like this signifies change, and a way forward for the province.
By Gwendah Babah – EMTV Cadet Journalist, Mt Hagen
