When it comes to sanitation, the soils of Fangak County, South Sudan are not friendly. The black cotton soil found throughout the region make sanitation solutions difficult at best. Typically only pit latrines are found here and they either require pumping, or are abandoned after full. Most people in this region practice open defecation which is an extreme health hazard.

A bio-digester toilet is an eco-friendly sanitation alternative. The bio-system breaks down human waste using anaerobic bacteria. It reduces odors, minimizes sludge, and produces treated effluent rich in nutrients. This effluent is commonly used for gardening because it acts as a natural fertilizer, conserves water and supports sustainable waste management.

In Paguir, the Alaska Health Project South Sudan undertook to construct the first bio-latrine in the region. The construction used locally made brick as well as the use of recycled fuel drums which are used as bio-digester tanks. The cost of the bio-latrine at Paguir came to around $14,000. Given its useful life expectancy of up to 15 years this is actually a cost effective sanitation solution.

I can report that the system works. The stalls are odorless and the treated effluent is being used in the garden. Could this finally be the solution needed in South Sudan? We are making plans for construction of two additional bio-latrines for use in the Paguir community. Stay tuned.