Elders in the Karamoja sub-region are calling on communities to abandon the practice of open defecation, citing its detrimental impact on public health.
The elders say that open defecation is a deeply ingrained cultural norm, perpetuated by strong beliefs which are challenging to eradicate.
For instance, pregnant mothers are discouraged from using toilets, with the misconception that it may cause miscarriage. Additionally, the community fairs use the same latrine as everyone, believing that mixing waste is an awkward act.
Despite interventions by partners aimed at addressing the issue through mindset change and provision of facilities, many toilets remain unused, with people continuing to defecate in the open.
Joseph Angolere, a member of the Karamoja Elders Association from Kangole town council, says they grapple with the challenges of open defecation, with many communities still lacking access to proper sanitation facilities.
Angolere attributes the lack of toilet facilities in the community to the poor texture of the soil, explaining that the soil is too loose, and only those with money can manage to construct proper toilet facilities.
He notes that the ones that are temporarily constructed often collapse, especially during the rainy season, due to the loose soil.
Angolere also observes that the negative attitude among community members has discouraged people from using toilets.
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