Layik Yik Koco Villagers agree to enforce sanitation by-laws

21 October 2026, 11:29 am

By Otim Moses

Residents of Layik Koco Village, Lamola parish in Labongo Amida West sub-county have resolved to enact village bye-laws on sanitation as a means of protecting the community from communicable diseases.

The resolution was passed during a community dialogue meeting [Baraza] held on 21st October 2026 in Layik Parish, Labongo Amida West Sub-county, Kitgum District.

The meeting, organized by Reproductive Health Uganda [RHU] in partnership with ADRA Uganda under the STRENGTH Project, brought together men, women, youth, and elders to identify community problems and propose practical solutions.

Top on the list were poor sanitation, children missing school, and exploitation by microfinance institutions such as ASSA.

Amito Nancy, a resident of Layik Koco, narrated how ASSA confiscated all her household property after she defaulted on a loan, forcing her to abandon her home.

Her testimony convinced the community to embrace Village Savings and Loan Association [VSLA] loans, which are cheaper and more flexible. Members were also encouraged to use VSLA capital to promote sanitation and pay school fees, rather than spending it recklessly.

“We can solve our own problems when we sit together,” an elder said during the meeting.

Mr. Okello Samuel Baker, the Parish Chief of Layik Parish, said sanitation and hygiene are the responsibility of every citizen for the better health of Ugandans.

He called on the community and lower local governments to work together to strengthen sanitation, and appealed to RHU to provide garbage collectors for every parish. He further encouraged residents to borrow for productive purposes such as school fees, not for drinking alcohol.

Key action points agreed upon include enforcing sanitation bye-laws, ensuring all children attend school, and encouraging borrowing from VSLAs.

Mr. Oloya Amos, the Labongo Amida West Sub-county LC3 Chairperson, said the sub-county is working closely with the District Health Department to strengthen health services ahead of the expected arrival of refugees in the area.

He called for stronger enforcement by health officials and local leaders to ensure every household has a latrine and meets all sanitation requirements.

He also appealed to the district leadership, the community, and the Ministry of Finance to provide affordable loans so that every citizen can afford them and children can attain education.