Intelligent Health.tech Issue 13 | Page 44

REGIONAL

R E G I O N A L C H E C K - U P

SOUTH AFRICA

CONFRONTING THE PIT LA CRISIS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Robert Erasmus , Managing Director at Sanitech , discusses the challenges faced in South Africa and the opportunities and resolutions available to tackle the pit latrine crisis , crisis in the region , specifically in schools .

The presence of pit latrines in South African schools remains a pressing socio-economic challenge , endangering the health and safety of learners .

Despite the Basic Education Department ' s commitment to eliminate pit latrines by 2025 , progress has been sluggish , and deadlines have been missed . Exacerbated by funding limitations and spending constraints , the government ’ s inability to replace these facilities has resulted in delays and inadequate improvements . The sheer geographical distribution of schools , particularly in rural areas and the absence of proper sanitation infrastructure further complicate matters , making it difficult to definitively address the issue .
Despite governmental challenges surrounding pit latrine eradication , the implications for public health and human dignity are unthinkable if the situation persists unremedied .
While it may not be feasible to solve this crisis overnight , there are several potential solutions available and corporate South Africa can play an important part in mitigating obstacles to progress through collaborative efforts .
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