Essa Nagri transformed with wall paintings to educate on hygiene

Karachi: Karachi’s informal settlements have long struggled with basic necessities, leaving residents vulnerable. Essa Nagri, a predominantly Christian community in District East, faces daily hardships in accessing essential services.

To drive social change and empower marginalized communities, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP), in collaboration with the National Rural Support Programme (NRSP), has launched a ‘wall painting drive’ in Essa Nagri under its Behavior Change Communication (BCC) component. The initiative uses vibrant murals to educate the community—especially children—on hygiene and sanitation. The artwork highlights key practices such as handwashing with soap and wearing slippers to prevent infections, reinforcing positive behaviors through constant visual reminders.

Many children in Essa Nagri walk barefoot, exposing themselves to infections and parasitic diseases, while a lack of proper handwashing contributes to the spread of illnesses like diarrhea, cholera, dengue, and chikungunya. By promoting simple hygiene habits, the campaign aims to reduce health risks and encourage regular school attendance.

Community members, including children and parents, gathered to witness the unveiling of the murals, expressing appreciation for the initiative. “These colorful walls have turned into an open book of hygiene education. We see these messages every day, and they serve as a constant reminder that cleanliness is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Slowly but surely, it will push everyone to adopt better behaviors for the safety and health of our children,” said Fouzia Abbas, a resident.

Dina Ashir, a teacher and mother, noted, “These messages are so powerful. They are not just painting walls; they’re planting ideas in our minds that will change our behavior, especially for the children. We need this shift more than ever.”

At a time when Karachi is facing a surge in viral diseases, this initiative underscores the urgent need for improved hygiene and sanitation practices. Through this creative campaign, KWSSIP and NRSP are not just beautifying walls but fostering lasting public health awareness, ensuring a healthier future for Essa Nagri’s children and families.