Strengthened understanding of governance responsibilities, clearer appreciation of financial oversight, and a renewed commitment to improving the operation and maintenance of school WASH facilities were key outcomes from recent capacity-building efforts with school leadership across Western Kenya.
Last week, with support from The END Fund, we conducted a series of trainings for Boards of Management (BoMs) across Vihiga, Kakamega, Trans Nzoia, and Bungoma counties. The initiative was implemented in partnership with Counties’ Health, Water and Education Directors, County NTD coordinators, County WASH Coordinators, The Ministry of Education, Sub-Counties’ NTDs and Education Officers, Ward Public Health Officers.
The trainings focused on enhancing BoM members’ understanding of governance, leadership, and financial oversight of school WASH facilities, equipping them with practical knowledge to better manage school resources, maintain sanitation infrastructure, and support safe learning environments.
Through these engagements, BoM members gained clearer insights into their roles under the Basic Education Act, particularly in relation to sustaining WASH services in schools. Discussions around operation and maintenance (O&M) highlighted the importance of routine facility checks, planning and budgeting for repairs, and putting in place simple systems to ensure accountability and continuity in managing WASH infrastructure.
During the mission, the team also conducted follow-up engagements with WASH champions and Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to assess the progress of community sensitization activities promoting proper sanitation and hygiene practices. These interactions provided insights into the reach of ongoing efforts, while also identifying gaps and opportunities to strengthen reporting, feedback, and support systems.
The follow-ups further reinforced the role of WASH champions and CHPs in promoting the consistent use of latrines, handwashing facilities, and improved hygiene practices at the household level.
By strengthening school governance structures and supporting community-based WASH champions and CHPs, WASH Alliance Kenya continues to contribute to improved sanitation, healthier learning environments, and stronger community ownership of WASH initiatives.
