J. Mason Kollie
A major campaign to combat open defecation in Lofa County has been launched by a local nongovernment organization, Community Safety Initiative (CSI). The campaign was launched over the week in Voinjama City, where the sanitation project was unveiled at a press briefing.
The management of CSI says the effort is aimed at improving public health and sanitation in Lofa County. The sale of SATO (Sanitation for All) products, beginning Monday, June 16, 2025 is part of the campaign, CSI has disclosed.
CSI’s Executive Director, Samuka B. Sannoh said the initiative is intended to make Lofa an open defecation-free community, which he said aligns with national and international health standards.
“We are committed to ensuring that every household in Lofa County has access to proper sanitation facilities. With the implementation of SATO products, we are taking a decisive step toward eradicating open defecation in our communities,” Mr. Sannoh stated.
The launch of this campaign comes with vital support from Population Services International (PSI) and USAID, organizations that share CSI’s vision for a healthier Liberia.
The partnership has facilitated the procurement of essential commodities, allowing CSI to provide affordable sanitation solutions to the local populace.
There are two types of SATO products being offered: the SATO Stool, priced at $15 USD, and the SATO Pan, sold for $10 USD. These innovative toilets are designed to be hygienic, durable, and cost-effective, making them accessible to families across varying income levels. The SATO designs are user-friendly and tailor-made for areas struggling with inadequate sanitation facilities, CSI Executive Director told the press.
The management of CSI encouraged residents of Lofa County to take advantage of the sanitation initiative, noting that it does not only benefit individual households, but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
To promote awareness and facilitate education about the importance of sanitation, CSI has planned a series of community workshops and information sessions throughout the county.
“The community’s involvement is vital,” remarked Mr. Sannoh. “We aim to engage local leaders, schools, and health workers, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and action. Together, we can achieve the goal of an open defecation-free environment.”
As the campaign officially kicks off on June 16, CSI has mobilized local volunteers and trained ambassadors to advocate for proper sanitation practices and to help distribute the SATO products.
This initiative not only aligns with global health goals, but also fosters a sense of community ownership and responsibility towards public health. As Lofa County pioneers this program in Liberia, the hope is to serve as a model for other regions with similar sanitation challenges.
Through the collective efforts of CSI, PSI, USAID, and the citizens of Lofa County, this initiative marks a promising stride toward a healthier, more sustainable future, free from the perils of open defecation.
