Now this is not unusual in Africa. You have a slightly elevated grooved area to place each foot on either side of the hole. (Think of a large accelerator pedal in your car) You squat over the hole and perform your functions. I have even used this type of facility in France as we cycled thru Provence. However, normally there is a door, preferably one that locks. Usually there is running water to clean off yourself and, of course, a sink and tap etc. in order to wash your hands afterwards.

The Mkokozi school has two open stalls, that have three walls, and that’s it.

This lack of privacy is debasing. Children from age 5 up to teens use the facilities. Do you know of any five year old with perfect bathroom abilities?

Now, let’s take a look at something of great concern to our Tanzania ARF Chairperson, Dr. Malecela. The lack of facilities and the lack of privacy means that in this situation, the continuation of studies for young girls reaching puberty is just impossible. There are no funds for personal hygiene supplies either. There is a great drop in the school attendance of female students of this age all thru the rural villages in Africa and something must be done. Something must be done immediately.

ARF will be building a well on the property this month (June). Next, proper latrine facilities will be built. There is no power or running water at the school. But this is not an obstacle. With the proper latrine facilities, washing areas will, obviously be built in.

This is only the beginning of this project. Dr. Malecela wants to reach out to the women of the world now. We need you to step forward and help with this project. Donate towards feminine supplies; towards latrines (Mkokozi school project).