It has been stressed that formalisation of faecal sludge management in Bauchi State is a step forward towards creating a value chain for faecal sludge that requires the involvement of all the key and relevant stakeholders which include government, pit latrine emptiers, households/facilities owners and all partners in the WASH sector among others. The assertion was made by the Director-General of the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA), Dr Ibrahim Kabir in a paper he presented on the formalisation of the sector. The paper was presented during an interactive session with officials from UNICEF Nigeria, Bauchi field office and other relevant stakeholders on faecal sludge with the target of sustainable and safe faecal sludge management in the state. It also highlighted some quick actions to put in place towards realisation of the initiative which includes engagement and sensitisation of all actors in the chain, capacity building and formation of Unions and developing a business model that will attract investors and more actors in the faecal sludge management. The UNICEF representative commended the Director General for a wonderful presentation and expressed optimism that the initiative will make a positive impact on faecal sludge management and acknowledged his Agency’s commitment towards creating a value chain to faecal sludge management.

Source: Nigerian Tribune October 19, 2023 10:12 UTC