Hand in Hand Zimbabwe has re-constructed and rehabilitated 15 ablution blocks at selected secondary schools in Chirumanzu and Shurugwi districts.

Fig 1 shows ablution blocks at Nhema primary school before and after the reconstruction.

The organisation also rehabilitated 6 boreholes at both primary schools and secondary schools in the two districts under its Radiohjalpen-funded project.

Fig 2 shows a borehole at Vungwi primary in Shurugwi district before and after the rehabilitation. The rehabilitation of boreholes has seen the provision of safe water to use and drink for both school children and the surrounding community.

Access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is essential for children in schools, particularly for girls as well as learners with disabilities.

Contaminated water, poor sanitation or unhealthy hygiene behaviours increases the risk of contracting water-borne diseases, making it more difficult for children to stay in school and become empowered through education. This is an even greater challenge for girls – especially girls who are menstruating – as they often face more barriers to enrol, stay in school, learn and perform.