World Toilet Day

World Toilet Day History

World Toilet Day is an annual global event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of access to clean and safe sanitation facilities and addressing the challenges related to sanitation and hygiene. Additionally, the observance emphasizes the need to advocate for appropriate policies and innovative solutions to tackle the sanitation crisis. Proper sanitation and hygiene practices play a crucial role in reducing diseases and improving the overall health, dignity, and well-being of communities, especially in developing countries.

Established in 2001 and officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, World Toilet Day has seen significant developments in highlighting the plight of sanitation issues faced by billions across the globe, including South Africa. In the South African context, a considerable portion of the population still lacks access to adequate sanitation facilities, leading to health problems and environmental hazards. As part of their commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the South African government has taken various initiatives to increase access to sanitation, particularly in schools and rural areas.

On World Toilet Day, South Africa joins other countries around the world in promoting various awareness campaigns, workshops, and events to educate and engage citizens on the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene. Communities, civil society organizations, and government agencies collaborate to address sanitation challenges by sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices. Furthermore, this day serves as an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the progress made in the country towards attaining universal access to sanitation facilities. World Toilet Day is observed globally on the 19th of November every year.

World Toilet Day facts

• The theme for World Toilet Day in 2023 was Accelerating Change.
• 1 in 8 people in the world practice open defecation, meaning that the person must relieve him/herself without cover or shelter from other people.
• Diarrhea is the second leading cause of deaths in children under age 5 in developing countries. Diarrhea is primarily due to poor hygiene and sanitation
• Many schools, particularly in rural areas, still rely on pit latrines as a form of sanitation. The South African government has been working on addressing this issue with its Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative, aiming to eradicate pit latrines in schools.
• Many urban informal settlements lack proper sewage systems, leading to a high risk of waterborne diseases and contamination of water sources.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Toilet Day

Top things to do in South Africa for World Toilet Day

• Spread awareness by using the hashtag #WorldToiletDay, #WeCantWait and #ToiletAccessIsARight.
• Read a book about toilets and the importance of sanitation. Some suggestions are: Sanitation & Water Supply in Low-Income Countries, Sitting Pretty An Uninhibited History of the Toilet and The Big Necessity.
• Write letters or petitions to local government officials advocating for increased investment in sanitation infrastructure and services. Raise concerns about inadequate facilities and offer suggestions for improvement.
• Collaborate with local NGOs, schools, or community organizations that work towards improving sanitation infrastructure. Offer donations or volunteer your time to support their efforts.