LifeStraw Launched in Nigeria for Safe Drinking Water

Rebecce Ejifoma

In pursuance of its aim to save more children daily from diarrhoea and cholera in Nigeria, LifeStraw has launched its products providing clean and safe drinking water free from bacteria viruses and other parasites.
This was launched in Lagos where various stakeholders in the health sector alongside teachers from across Nigeria were present to unanimously eliminate under five diarrhea – the second leading cause of mortality among children under five years olds.

On the theme, ‘Availing safe drinking water for all’, the Country Director, Vestergaard Ltd, Mr. Steve Otieno described LifeStraw as a tool that filters and eliminates 100 per cent protozoan, bacteria and the entire parasites. “Water may look clean. But that doesn’t mean it is safe for drinking.”

He added that LifeStraw prevents waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, worms, and cryptosporidiosis. “The products remove 99.99 per cent of bacteria (E. coli, among others); 99.99 per cent of protozoan cysts (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, etc.) reduction) and 99.99 per cent of viruses (Rotavirus, Hepatitis A).”
According to him, LifeStraw products are instant microbial water purifiers, an innovative safe drinking water solution developed with Nigeria in mind, approved by the UN Foundation; certified by WHO and the United States EPA drinking water standards.

Created by Vestergaard, a Swiss company with partners that include the United Nations foundations, World vision and the Carter Centre, Otieno assured Nigerians that the products have been made cheaper and affordable for all. Their penchant, among others, include to provide safe water to the estimated 663 million people lacking access to improved drinking water sources globally.

He said: “They are affordable, durable, easy to install, use and maintain. LifeStraw Community (LSC) is available for purchase at the warehouse in Lagos Nigeria for $399.99 USD. Interested buyers get in touch. 50litres capacity. For communities. Can serve 100 people.”

He spoke further that there were different models that would provide individuals, schools, businesses, families, churches and communities with instant access to safe clean drinking water on the go and in a location. “Water used can be from any source – river, lake, well, stream and tap among others.”