Lagos Receives $275,000 Grant to Fight Cholera Outbreak

Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and with funding support from the Government of Japan, has launched a focused initiative to prevent cholera outbreaks in flood-prone communities across the state.

The project, titled “Emergency Capacity Building of Informal Food and Water Vendors and Waste Workers in Flood-Affected Lagos to Combat Cholera Outbreaks,” is backed by a grant of about $275,000.

Speaking at a sensitisation programme in Lagos on Wednesday, LASEPA General Manager Dr. Babatunde Ajayi highlighted the critical role of informal food and water vendors, as well as waste workers, in safeguarding public health and ensuring environmental safety.

He explained that their daily activities directly affect public health outcomes, environmental hygiene, and the general well-being of residents. The intervention, supported by the Government of Japan and UNIDO, aims to build the capacity of these groups through training in hygiene, sanitation, and safe handling practices.

Ajayi noted that the funds would also provide hygiene supplies, awareness materials, and support systems for high-risk local government areas while strengthening monitoring and cooperation among government agencies, vendors, and waste-management operators.

He added, “Together, we can ensure a safer, healthier, and more resilient Lagos.”

UNIDO Project Assistant Wunako Elam described the project as a timely and practical step that not only responds to past cholera outbreaks but also enhances the state’s preparedness for future public health challenges.