By Brian Atuhura
Leaders in Masindi District have raised concern over low sanitation levels after a district report revealed household sanitation coverage stands at 74.8 percent, significantly below the National average of 88 percent.

The findings were presented during the climax of sanitation week celebrations held yesterday at Kimengo primary school in Kimengo Sub-County.

The Assistant District Health Officer in-charge of Environmental Health, Patrick Baguma, called for intensified efforts, particularly in poorly performing areas.

According to the report, Kimengo Sub-County ranked worst in sanitation and hygiene,with latrine coverage at 55 percent and hand washing at just 14.7 percent.In contrast, Kijunjubwa Sub-County emerged the best performer,with latrine coverage at 97.3percent and hand washing at 28 percent.

The data further indicates that only 27.4 percent of households have basic sanitation facilities,while safely managed sanitation stands at 12 percent.Safe water coverage in the district averages 70 percent,with rural areas performing better at 94 percent compared to 20 percent in urban settings.

In schools, hand washing facilities stand at 67.5 percent,while the pupil to latrine stance ratio is 54:1 pointing to ongoing pressure on sanitation infrastructure.

Baguma noted that up to 75 percent of disease burden is preventable,with 60 percent linked to poor sanitation and hygiene, underscoring the urgency of improving standards.

Speaking at the event as the Chief Guest,the District Vice Chairperson, Kassim Kabagonza commended efforts to improve sanitation in some communities but urged more action, especially in underserved areas.He also encouraged parents to prioritize education for their children.

District leaders further called for stricter enforcement of sanitation requirements, particularly ensuring that building plans include latrine facilities and urged local officials to work closely with health teams to promote hygiene at household level.

This year's sanitation week was held under the theme,"Accelerating Safely Managed Sanitation for a Healthier Uganda."