Mozambique: School sanitation upgrades open the door to learning for girls

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Mozambique: School sanitation upgrades open the door to learning for girls

9:47 CAT | 10 Sep 2025

Photo: UNICEF Moçambique/2025/João Matsimbe

With the support from the Japan Committee for UNICEF, the Sete-2 Primary School is changing this by building a water source and improving latrines, waste disposal areas and handwashing systems with soap or ash.

At Sete-2 Primary School in the district of Gorongosa, girls once faced daily challenges. The lack of adequate latrines forced many students to go into the woods or wait until they got home to relieve themselves. Personal hygiene was neglected due to limited infrastructure and guidance, and breaks often passed without attention to sanitation.

“Before, I had to go into the woods or wait until I got home to relieve myself, and it was difficult to clean the school because we didn’t have an organized group. During breaks, I would eat my snack without washing my hands,” says Estacha Tomé, a 14-year-old student.

The absence of basic sanitation compromised not only the girls’ health, but also their dignity and school performance.

With the support of UNICEF and the Japan Committee for UNICEF (JCU), and in collaboration with the Sofala Provincial Directorate of Public Works, the school is changing this by building a water source and improving latrines, waste disposal areas, and handwashing systems with soap or ash.

Alongside the new infrastructure, students and staff received training and awareness-raising on good hygiene and sanitation practices. The school health teacher now instructs students on the importance of washing their hands after using the latrine or cleaning, and before eating.

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For Estacha and her classmates, the change has been profound. The school is becoming a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming place. Girls are actively involved in cleaning and maintaining the spaces, showing leadership and organisation. Improved sanitary conditions bring more confidence, better health, and fresh motivation to learn.

“Now we have latrines, sanitary landfills, pantries, and handwashing facilities, both at school and in our homes. I am grateful to UNICEF and the school administration for helping us move forward,” adds Estacha Tomé.

The story of Sete-2 Primary School shows how investments in sanitation and hygiene can transform lives. With their dignity restored and health protected, the girls of Gorongosa and Muanza now have better conditions to grow, learn, and dream of a bright future.

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