RACOBAO constructs mud and wattle houses, benefiting children living on their own and PLHIV in its area of operation. The houses are roofed with iron sheets and cemented in and out. The construction of the houses will address the poor housing condition among PLHIV and children living on their own, which has forced children to abandon their own homesteads and others resort to make-shifts which are usually destroyed by weather conditions(i.e. rain and cold) leaving them at a risk of getting infected with weather related illnesses like pneumonia and malaria since the home environment provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The situation has increased the vulnerability of such groups.
The constructed houses are expected to provide appropriate shelter to children living on their own and PLHIV, which will improve their livelihoods because of the reduction in the occurrence of weather related diseases like pneumonia and malaria. The volunteer AIDS counselors who participated in the identification of the beneficiary households will continue giving support to children living on their own on issues related to hygiene and sanitation so as to reduce the risk of infections as a result of poor hygiene.
Construction of Pit Latrines
RACOBAO constructs wattle pit latrines to households of children living alone and PLHIV. The aim is to reduce gastro- infections (diarhorea, cholera etc) among the groups. The latrines are cemented and roofed with iron sheets with an accompanying bath room meant to enhance better hygiene habits in homes. Children and PLHIV are utilizing latrines and bathrooms and have adopted good hygiene practices like bathing and washing, and regular cleaning of the latrine.
Construction of Water Tanks
RACOBAO constructs simple water collection tanks for children living alone and PLHIV on ART. The 4000 liter tanks are constructed using cement, wire mesh and sand. They are also fitted with gauges and taps. The constructed water collection tanks are expected to benefit approximately 150 household members by accessing safe water. PLHIV adherence on ART is expected to increase due to availability of safe water, which is a prerequisite for successful intake of ART. The availability and easy access of water will enable the female children to have enough time to attend school and reduce the risks that are associated with travelling long distances in search of water. It will in turn reduce the school drop out rates especially in the dry season when children walk long distances in search of water.
Construction of Kitchenettes
RACOBAO constructs wattle kitchenettes, cemented and with energy saving stove designed to save firewood consumption. The constructed kitchenettes are expected to improve food hygiene, reduce food contamination and the risk of smoke related diseases among children living alone and PLHIV.
Distribution of Non-Food Items and Domestic Utensils
RACOBAO distributes non-food items comprising of mosquito nets, mattresses, blankets and beds; domestic utensils comprise of water cans, cups, plates and saucepans. These are given to HIV/AIDS affected households of children living alone and PLHIV. The material support is expected to improve the living standards of the beneficiary households and enhance better hygienic standards.
Non food items include mosquito nets, mattresses, blankets, and utensils.
495 people have received these items and of whom 266 were females.
