Teachers and learners at Mankhokwe Primary School in Nsanje District are celebrating the construction of eight new toilets, valued at K28 million, aimed at improving sanitation at the school.

The new facilities, built through the Constituency Development Fund, come as a major relief after the school’s previous toilets were destroyed by Cyclone Freddy-induced floods in 2023, leaving both learners and teachers without proper sanitation.

Speaking in an interview on Saturday, head teacher Bernadette Mlinga expressed her gratitude to Nsanje South independent legislator Ramzan Juma Mahommed for making the project possible.

“When the cyclone struck, all toilet facilities were swept away, forcing learners to use nearby bushes. This not only posed health risks, including waterborne diseases, but also created an unbearable stench across the school,” Mlinga said. “Now, with the new toilets, we can breathe fresh air again.”

The school’s head girl, Mwaiwao Master, highlighted the challenges girls faced during the period without toilets.
“As girls, we need privacy. The lack of proper facilities stripped us of our dignity,” she said. “We’re grateful for the new toilets and call on well-wishers to help construct change rooms for girls as well.”

Legislator Mahommed said he prioritized the project because of the critical role sanitation plays in education.
“Schools must provide a safe and hygienic environment. That’s why I pushed for the construction of these toilets — I believe strongly in promoting quality education,” he said.

He also commended the Kungayicha Village Development Committee under Traditional Authority Ndamera for their role in ensuring the project’s smooth implementation.

Of the eight toilets constructed, six are for learners and two are designated for teachers.
Mankhokwe Primary School, established in 1952, currently serves 821 learners.