In Madagascar, access to adequate sanitation assures better health
The availability of adequate sanitation at a health center in the municipality of Tanambao encourages women to prioritize their health.
A queue of women patiently awaits prenatal consultations at the health center in Tanambao Verrerie, located less than 5 kilometers from the city center of Toamasina, on the west coast of Madagascar. The center offers a range of services, including vaccination, pregnancy monitoring, childbirth assistance, and dentistry.
Dr. Fenosoa Rasoamampionona serves as the Chief Medical Officer of the centre. At 45 years old, she chose this profession driven by her desire to assist the community. "My profession is a calling to ensure the well-being of the population," she says.
In Madagascar, currently, half of the health facilities lack improved water sources, and just some 60% have hygienic latrines. Tanambao Verrerie was no exception to this reality, relying on a single latrine for patients, visitors, and health workers. "A single latrine did not meet our needs, the surroundings were constantly dirty, which was not hygienic for the center," said Dr. Rasoamampionona.
Thanks to the support of the "We Are Water Foundation," through the Spanish National Committee for UNICEF, the center has benefited from the construction of sanitary blocks with three compartments of latrines and shower cabins.
The construction of new latrines has had a significant impact on the center's attendance, particularly among women. "Since our facilities have been restored, the number of women consulting and giving birth in our center has doubled, from 30 to 70 per month,” said Dr. Rasoamampionona. “Access to quality sanitation is crucial for disease prevention. The use of this new latrine requires fees for center visitors, for us to be able to keep it clean.”
Water and adequate sanitation services significantly contribute to the quality of healthcare. For women who frequent the Tanambao health center, as for the majority of women in Madagascar, the importance of quality sanitation is undeniable to ensure maternal health, therefore ensuring the well-being of newborns.
(1) Ministry of Public Health - Health Sector Development Plan 2020 – 2024
