At the heart of Maputo City, Mozambique, Unidade 31 Primary School is a bustling center of education. For years, however, the school faced a significant challenge that affected the health and dignity of its 706 students and 17 teachers: inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities. The existing infrastructure was not only insufficient but also in poor condition, exposing students and staff to risks associated with unsanitary conditions.
When Ana Paula Tembe Pacamo became the director of Unidade 31 Primary School in 2011, she quickly realized that the school’s sole toilet block, built by the Red Cross, could not support its population. The situation was dire, especially for girls, who often faced long waits and unsanitary conditions. In response, the school attempted to address the issue by building an additional latrine. However, this latrine was far from a solution. It was poorly constructed, had no roof, and frequently collapsed, creating a serious health hazard.
“The latrine was a constant danger. It often collapsed, putting the health and lives of our students at risk. We had no choice but to conduct ongoing repairs despite limited resources,” recalls Ms. Pacamo.
In addition to the structural issues, the water supply to the toilet block was unreliable, forcing the school to rely on water cans to maintain basic hygiene. The sewage system frequently clogged, especially in the boys’ facilities, compounding the difficulties.
As the situation worsened, students began using the makeshift latrine, which was intended for teachers, further straining the school’s inadequate resources. It was clear that without significant intervention, the WASH facilities would continue to fail, and the health of the school community would remain in jeopardy.
Recognizing the urgent need for improved WASH services, WSUP partnered with the Maputo Municipality to rehabilitate and expand the school’s toilet facilities. With funding from an anonymous donor, WSUP inaugurated the newly constructed and rehabilitated WASH blocks at Unidade 31 Primary School. These modern facilities now serve the entire school community, including 357 girls, 349 boys, and 17 teachers.
Ms. Pacamo is deeply grateful for this intervention, noting that it has transformed the school’s environment. “With the intervention of WSUP in the construction and rehabilitation of the toilets, the school now has a healthier environment,” she says. “We no longer use the latrine that polluted the environment, and this is a benefit for the school because we have a suitable place for students and teachers to meet their needs.”
This project not only improved the physical infrastructure but also inspired a renewed sense of responsibility within the community. The parents’ council and the local community have come together to contribute towards hiring a security guard to protect the new facilities, ensuring that they remain in good condition for years to come.
The school now boasts modern, safe, and functional toilets that provide ample capacity for students and staff. Access to clean water for hygiene is no longer a challenge, and the risk of disease from unsanitary conditions has been significantly reduced. Students, especially girls, no longer have to endure long waits or unsafe conditions to use the bathroom.
The improvements have also boosted morale among students, teachers, and the wider community.
“When I look back, I see and say that the school has gained a lot because it is a dream we have been striving for many years. We also feel this through the praise that the community has given us,” says Pacamo.
For WSUP Mozambique, this project is part of a broader effort to improve WASH services across urban areas in the country. Over the past decade, WSUP has improved access to water for over 1.5 million people, enhanced sanitation for over 200,000, and educated more than 750,000 individuals on hygiene practices.
“By providing modern, reliable WASH facilities in schools like Unidade 31, we are not only improving health outcomes but also fostering dignity and pride in the community. These facilities are a symbol of what can be achieved when we work together for the betterment of our children,” said Fátima Mussá, Acting WSUP Mozambique Country Manager.
For the students and staff of Unidade 31, the future looks brighter and healthier. The new WASH blocks have restored their dignity and provided a safe, clean space that will positively impact their education and well being for years to come.