Pwani Oil Products Limited, through its Sawa brand, has rolled out a 10-day school campaign to promote hand hygiene and sanitation among primary school learners in Nairobi.
The initiative, targeting pupils from Grade 1 to Grade 6, will reach 61 schools across Njiiru, Kamukunji, Makadara, Starehe, and Kibra sub-counties, with an estimated 31,000 children set to benefit.
According to UNICEF and the Ministry of Health, poor hand hygiene remains one of the leading causes of communicable diseases among children, including diarrhoeal infections, respiratory illnesses, and skin conditions. Recent cholera outbreaks in Kenya have further underscored the urgent need for improved sanitation practices.
“Good hygiene is a foundation of good health, and children are at the heart of our mission to empower learners to take charge of their personal hygiene while also spreading these practices within their families and neighborhoods,” said Rajul Malde, Commercial Director at Pwani Oil Products Limited.
The campaign will feature handwashing demonstrations, interactive games, hygiene education, and free sampling of Sawa soap. Learners will also take part in classroom competitions, receive branded giveaways, and interact with Sawa’s colorful mascots.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kenya recorded a decline in diarrhoeal cases as frequent handwashing became routine, demonstrating the impact of proper hygiene practices. Ministry of Education studies show that schools with structured hygiene programs report up to 25 percent fewer absentee days.
By reinforcing the Ministry of Health’s call for regular handwashing with soap and water, the Sawa campaign seeks to reduce illness-related absenteeism and promote healthier communities.
