AYGF played a crucial role in the recent WASH in Emergencies (WiE) Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting organised by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources (FMWR). Represented by Programs Officer Imaga Oji, AYGF presented a significant report detailing the discovery of heavy metal poisoning in the Gaidau settlement of Sokoto State’s Illela LGA.
This report sheds light on a severe public health crisis in the Gaidau settlement, where high levels of mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel, and zinc oxides have been detected in water, soil, and local produce. The contamination has impacted the community’s health, with 55% of water samples showing E. coli contamination.
WASH is a cornerstone of public health, and its importance is magnified during emergencies when existing services are often overwhelmed. Without adequate WASH services, the spread of diarrhoea and infectious diseases can accelerate, posing a significant threat to affected populations. The TWG aims to enhance the capabilities of institutions and promote knowledge sharing and best practices in WASH management.
