We finally finished the (re)building and renovation of Mwambao bathrooms!
A major concern at Mwambao had been the poor-quality condition and lack of accessibility of the washrooms. Led by the dedicated special needs class teacher Rebecca, we drafted solutions on how to rebuild and/or renovate the existing facilities to make them safe and accessible for all students.
There was no toilet for children with physical disabilities as they were unable to use the existing crouching toilets. So we installed a new accessible sitting flushing toilet for kids with physical disabilities.
Also, the toilet entrances were not accessible as there were large high steps. For children with lower muscle strength they were hard to climb, and for physically disabled/paralysed kids impossible to access. We removed the stairs and steps and cemented a platform and wheelchair-accessible ramp.
Furthermore, the design of the toilets was highly impractical as toilet stalls had to be entered through a narrow hallway, and the individual bathrooms were difficult to enter and manoeuvre in. We changed the layout of the individual toilet booths to each have its own entrance, so each child entering can be supervised. Also, there is now enough space for children with disabilities maneuvering in the bathroom without colliding with the door, and for a support person to accompany them.
We extended the roof so it is not raining inside the facilities any more during the rainy season. There were no proper hand washing facilities, so we installed two proper exterior sinks with taps. Finally, the walls were plastered and freshly painted with the help of local artists.
By creating an inviting space for toileting and hand washing we aim to keep the children safe and included while strengthening their hygiene and autonomous life skills. A huge asante sana to the donors who have been supporting this process – and a special thanks to teacher Rebecca, who has not only been teaching and caring for the children, but had also been organizing workers, dealt with challenges arising, and dedicated time and resources out of her busy schedule to the construction site management!
