As the world marks Global Handwashing Day, UNICEF has emphasized the vital role of hand hygiene in protecting public health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Maureen Zubie Okolo, Monitoring for Result and Officer in Charge of UNICEF’s Enugu field office said this in Enugu at a one-day zonal press briefing on global hand washing day 2024 organized by UNICEF in collaboration with Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State with theme “Why are clean hands important”
Okolo who highlighted handwashing’s significance in safeguarding health and well-being reaffirmed UNICEF commitment to promoting hand hygiene worldwide.
“Handwashing is a cornerstone of disease prevention, preventing the spread of diseases like diarrhea, respiratory infections, Ebola, cholera, and COVID-19.
“UNICEF supports national handwashing campaigns and integrates hand hygiene into existing programs in over 90 countries. In collaboration with the World Health Organization, UNICEF monitors handwashing in households, schools, and healthcare facilities,” she said
She thereby called on governments, donors, suppliers, businesses, and academics to prioritize hand hygiene.
In her welcome address, Chika Mbah Acting Managing Director, Enugu State Ministry of Water Resources (ENRUWASSA) represented by Chioma Dick Emmanuel described hand washing as a critical Intervention in preventing diseas and promoting health, especially for children and pregnant women.
She said “We must recognise that the most effective solertions often lie in on daily routines. By pomoting proper hand hygiene, we can greatly reduce the incidence of preventable diseases, Safeguarding the health of our schees & Communities.
“This year’s theme emphasises the limportance of handwashing not only as a means protect on health but also as a tool for human empowerment. We are here to motiwate everyone-children, adults & Communities, to embrace this live-saving practice of hand washing.
“I would like to Sincerely appreciate UNICEF for then support and partnership in the efforts to promote health and hygiene. Together, we can make a Lasting Impact,” she said.
