The lives of Syrian refugees in Lebanon’s settlements have been marked by hardship and uncertainty. Struggling with inadequate infrastructure and limited resources, these communities face significant challenges in maintaining basic hygiene and health. The urgent need for clean water, proper sanitation, and effective hygiene practices has become a critical priority. Recognizing this harsh situation, the WASH initiative stepped in to address these pressing needs with compassion and innovation. Their efforts have become a beam of hope, aiming to improve the quality of life for these vulnerable populations and provide them with the dignity and health they deserve.
2024 marked a remarkable era for WASH initiatives, crafting a vision of progress and hope that stunned communities and partners alike. From Tamnin Al Tahta to Arsal, the second quarter of the WASH project implemented by The Lebanese Organization for Studies and Training funded by UNICEF, was a rise of achievements that resonated with innovation, collaboration, and impact.
WASH Support to Makani Centers
As the calendar turned to April, the WASH team hopped on an ambitious journey, setting the stage for remarkable advancements. Over 29,577 individuals across six targeted sites, Tamnin Al Tahta, Majdaloun, Taibet Baalbeck, Nabisheet, Houch Rafiqa, and Arsal were the recipients of life-enhancing interventions.
At the heart of these efforts was the creation of crucial facilities. Each center witnessed the installation of two latrines, one for females and one for males ensuring accessibility for individuals with special needs. The handwashing facilities, equipped with a 500-liter water tank, stood as a testament to our commitment to hygiene and accessibility for all. Waste management saw a huge upgrade with the introduction of a 1,000-liter holding tank, seamlessly integrating with the latrines and setting a new standard in sanitary infrastructure.
Currently in Motion
Soap-making was more than just about hygiene, it was an art form. Beneficiaries brought their own oil, contributing to a collective effort that resulted in beautifully crafted soap. Each bar symbolized unity and empowerment, an outcome of shared resources and skills. Women engaged in sewing reusable menstrual pads were not just sewing pads, they were stitching the fabric of dignity and sustainability. From selecting fabrics to final distribution, their involvement was amazingly impactful.
Modeling clay and puppet sewing activities for children, though constrained by budget, flourished through using beneficiary-provided materials. These activities were more than play, they were lessons in resourcefulness and community spirit.
Community Engagement Approach
The CE approach was a masterclass in community mobilization. Recognizing the strengths and skills of community members, from sewing to soap making, we facilitated Training of Trainers sessions where skilled women mentored others. These activities were implemented with trained community members, under the watchful eyes of the Hygiene Promotion team, ensuring a clear sequence of knowledge and skills.
WELL WASH Equipped LOST Lab
The Lab served as the guardian of water safety, conducting regular analyses of water sources used by suppliers and beneficiaries. Responding to referrals, the lab precisely analyzed black and grey water, ensuring every drop met the highest standards of safety. Their expertise extended to assisting other partners and NGOs, embracing the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility.
The WASH achievements in 2024 were not just milestones, they were a symphony of progress, orchestrated by dedication, innovation, and an endless commitment to bettering lives. These successes inspire us to imagine a future where everyone has clean water, good sanitation, and proper hygiene. In this future, communities will thrive and dignity will be maintained. The journey has just begun, and the best is yet to come!
