BORDA ZAMBIA EMPLOYS INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO REINFORCE HYGIENE HABITS IN SCHOOLS

Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Zambia has intensified efforts to instil lasting behavioural change among Zambian pupils through innovative methods such as art, football, and drama. 

During a presentation at the Talking Walls Exhibition in Lusaka, BORDA Zambia Social Facilitator Prince Kapelembe emphasised the importance of active engagement rather than passive learning to reinforce hygiene habits, including handwashing.  

Mr Kapelembe noted that, despite extensive awareness campaigns, many learners and community members still struggle to adopt proper hygiene practices, leading to preventable diseases. 

He explained that the challenge is not a lack of knowledge, as most children understand the importance of handwashing, but rather a gap in consistent practice.  

He said since 2021, BORDA Zambia has been implementing the Oceans of Change project, which combines infrastructure development with behavioural change programmes. 

Mr Kapelembe said phase one of the project reached 20 schools in Mandevu Constituency, while phase two is currently engaging 10 schools in Munali Constituency.  

He said BORDA Zambia employs a Universal Language Approach, to make hygiene education more engaging, integrating football drills to convey hygiene messages. 

Mr Kapelembe stated that students are also encouraged to create poetry and drama performances on sanitation topics, while others express their understanding of hygiene through drawings.  

He pointed out that football is widely understood, making it an effective tool for promoting hygiene, while also ensuring inclusivity by encouraging girls to participate equally. 

A recent WASH-themed art competition attracted over 200 entries from students in grades one to twelve, with artworks depicting themes such as handwashing, menstrual hygiene, and proper waste management.  

Mr Kapelembe stressed that beyond student engagement, BORDA Zambia trains teachers and strengthens school WASH committees to ensure sustainability. 

He highlighted the importance of institutionalising hygiene practices to ensure knowledge transfer even when trained teachers move to other schools.  

With plans to expand, BORDA Zambia aims to reach more schools and communities, reinforcing hygiene through creativity and participation. 

Mr Kapelembe stated that behavioural change does not happen overnight, but through play, art, and peer learning, significant progress is being made.

Meanwhile, Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advocating for WASH in schools. 

He emphasised the need for coordination among stakeholders and securing WASH funding to prevent resource diversion.  

Mr Bangwe commended BORDA Zambia’s WASH n Soul UL4BC approach for promoting hygiene behaviour in schools. 

He congratulated learners for their artistic contributions, noting that their work highlights both challenges and solutions in WASH. 

He called for continued collaboration to ensure lasting improvements in school sanitation.

BORDA Zambia is an active member of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley Chisenga.

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