Celebrating health and hygiene achievements at the CHC graduation in Ward 34 of Gokwe North

On the 11th of October, Ward 34 of Gokwe North came alive with celebrations as 93 Community Health Club (CHC) members from 18 different clubs gathered at Denda Dip Tank, a facility recently rehabilitated by Africa AHEAD, to receive their well-deserved certificates. These members successfully completed 20 Participatory Health and Hygiene Education (PHHE) sessions and engaged in practical learning that has brought about visible change in their communities.

The graduation event was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the community members of Ward 34 who have adopted and practiced improved health and hygiene behaviors. Their efforts have led to significant community improvements, including the digging of latrine pits moving away from open defacation, the erection of tippy taps for handwashing at both the household entrance and toilet entrance, the digging of three waste management rubbish pits and the establishment of two-tier pot racks for hygienic dish drying. Some of the club showcased a display of practical mockups of these hygiene enabling facilities.

The event’s guest of honor, Assistant District Development Coordinator (DDC) Mr. Stewart Gwatirinda, commended the members for their outstanding achievements in promoting community health and hygiene. He was joined by other esteemed guests, including Ward 33 Women’s Quota representative Ms. Spiwe Kadoma, representatives from the Ministry of Health & Child Care, the Ward 34 Environmental Health Technician (EHT) Mr. Masikati, and District Environmental Health Officer (DEHO) representative Mr. T. Mbizvo. Ward 34 Councillor, Cllr. T. Chikwanda, also graced the occasion, offering words of encouragement to the CHC members.

The project, which commenced in September 2023, was made possible through funding from United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with Action Contre La Faim, Africa AHEAD, Musasa and Nutrition Action Zimbabwe, along with the invaluable support of various stakeholders. The event, celebrating the success of 93 CHC members from 18 clubs, would not have been possible without the collective efforts of these partners and the dedication of the entire community. Their collaboration has been instrumental in driving forward health and hygiene improvements in Ward 34.

The CHC graduation ceremony marked a major step forward in community empowerment, as members not only celebrated their achievements but also reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining health and hygiene practices that will improve the well-being of their communities.