We do a little more than water…
Cultural practices and social norms can often obscure the impact they have on our health. This was true for Annonciata, a farmer, wife and mother of three living in Mubaba, Rwanda. Her family faced significant challenges related to hygiene and sanitation until they joined the community hygiene club, “Tunoze Isuku” (which means “Improve Cleanliness”) in 2022, a program funded by 20 Liters and executed by our partner, World Relief.
World Relief trains volunteers from various churches to assess community needs and establish solutions like hygiene clubs that promote environmental health. Since joining Tunoze Isuku, Annonciata and her family have experienced remarkable changes in their lives.
Reflecting on her family’s situation before the club, Annonciata shared, “Before Tunoze Isuku, my family struggled. I didn’t wash my body or wear clean clothes; I often wore dirty garments. Now, I understand the importance of dressing in clean clothes and washing my body after a day of farming.”
Sanitation facilities were also a challenge. “Our toilet was far from our house, making it difficult to use at night. Now, we’ve moved it closer, ensuring all family members can access it easily,” she explained.
One of the most significant changes has been in her family’s hygiene practices. “I had no knowledge of handwashing before joining Tunoze Isuku. My family often ate without washing our hands, which led to various hygiene-related illnesses.” Thanks to the club’s training, they installed a tip tap (a makeshift water faucet) near their toilet, and now everyone practices handwashing after using the facility. Additionally, Annonciata has constructed drying racks for their utensils, ensuring safe and hygienic use.
The committee of community volunteers has also introduced a savings initiative, where each member saves 300 Rwandan francs weekly and contributes an additional 100 Rwandan francs for social activities. Through this initiative, Annonciata has saved 150,000 Rwandan francs (approximately $115), allowing her to purchase two pigs, a goat, and a chicken that has since given birth to seven chicks. She has also built a modern stove that consumes less firewood, further enhancing her family’s resource efficiency.
Annonciata is immensely grateful to World Relief and 20 Liters for their support in establishing the community hygiene club in her village. She reflects on the comprehensive improvements in her family’s life—hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, and economic well-being. “We are becoming more prosperous compared to our previous situation,” she said, emphasizing the positive impact of the club on their daily lives.
The transformation brought about by Tunoze Isuku is not just about cleaner hands and improved sanitation; it signifies a cultural shift towards better health and well-being for Annonciata’s family and the entire community. Your support has made this change possible, fostering a healthier and more prosperous future for families in Mubaba. Thank you for your commitment to improving lives through clean water and hygiene education.
Author’s note: at this time last year, I had the opportunity to meet the leaders of a Tunoze Isuku in Rwanda. The video below shows them dancing and singing about health and hygiene. This is how they teach others to remember the importance of good health habits.
