The COVID-19 pandemic: Benin is under threat
Benin, like several other countries in the world, is facing the coronavirus pandemic that has already claimed many victims on the planet. On Monday March 16, 2020, Benin recorded its first confirmed case of corona contamination. As of May 17, 2020, there are already 339 confirmed cases, 254 under treatment, 83 cases cured and 2 deaths.
In response to this health crisis, several measures have been taken to limit the spread of the virus. Systematic handwashing with soap and water or the use of hydroalcoholic gels, social distancing of at least one metre, and the systematic wearing of masks are all barrier measures implemented in Benin. In addition, a cordon sanitaire has been installed around communes and the most affected areas for six weeks; places of worship, discotheques, bars, beaches and other places of entertainment are closed throughout the country.
The education system, meanwhile, has seen an extension of the Easter holidays from March 30 to May 10, 2020. School activities resumed on May 11, 2020, but only for fifth-graders in the primary school. Following this resumption, it must be noted that compliance with the barrier measures is not yet unanimous in all schools and colleges.
Thus, the Hubi & Vinciane Foundation has decided to reinforce its actions in hygiene and sanitation in partner schools and colleges. It is strengthening traditional hand washing devices (Tippy Tap) which are very practical, easy to implement and have proven to be sustainable. These systems will also be implemented in households and will be accompanied by awareness-raising sessions for proper use.
Indeed, the corona crisis associated with the economic crisis and its corollaries further weaken the lower class populations who were already fighting against several diseases in Benin (malnutrition, hydro-faecal diseases, malaria, etc.).
With their increasingly meagre purchasing power, they are left undernourished and they lack the means to afford the necessary conditions that would enable them to observe the barrier measures. Thus the coronavirus pandemic constitutes a vicious circle that permanently exposes the human race to high mortality in developing countries such as Benin. Let’s save lives in Benin by strengthening handwashing.
