LINDI RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CASHEW INCOME TO BUILD IMPROVED TOILETS

NA HADIJA OMARI -LINDI

Residents in Lindi Region have been urged to use the income earned from selling cashew nuts to build improved toilets as a way of preventing outbreak diseases.

The call was made yesterday, November 19, 2025, by the region’s Health Officer, Hashim Semka, during the commemoration of World Toilet Day held in Tulieni Village, Mtama District Council.

The event was organized by Heart to Heart Foundation, with support from KOICA, as part of efforts to raise community awareness on the importance of using improved sanitation facilities.

Speaking at the event, Semka noted that the current status of improved toilet construction in the region remains unsatisfactory, particularly within Mtama District Council.

“At a time when many people are receiving income from cashew sales, it is important to use part of those earnings to construct improved toilets,”

he emphasized.

The Acting District Medical Officer for Mtama, Dr. Mambula Kamata, said the lack of safe toilets affects women and girls the most, especially in areas experiencing conflicts or disasters where basic services are disrupted.

He added that access to proper sanitation enhances health services and upholds human dignity, stressing the need for communities to take part in constructing improved toilets.

“Every resident should ensure they participate or encourage others to take action—organizing community clean-up campaigns, engaging on social media, and supporting safe toilet projects in schools and villages,”

Dr. Kamata said.

He further explained that improved toilets should meet five essential standards: a washable floor, a strong structure, a proper roof, a well-closing door, and a cover for traditional pit latrines.

Edward Aloyce, Project Officer at Heart to Heart Foundation, said the organization is currently implementing a three-year project supporting the government’s efforts to promote improved sanitation. 

The project aims to promote the use of improved toilets and environmental hygiene in 22 villages, 125 sub-villages, and 5 wards within Mtama District Council.

He noted that the World Toilet Day event was also intended to encourage community members to adopt and use toilets that meet proper standards.Some residents who attended the event expressed satisfaction with the education provided and pledged to implement the guidance given.