James Howard-Davies 
The launch took place on the eve of World Toilet Day, underscoring the critical role of dignified sanitation facilities in educational spaces and the urgency of Sustainable Development Goal 6: clean water and sanitation for all.
In attendance were Ms Siviwe Gwarube, Minister of Basic Education, and Mr Dean Macpherson, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, along with representatives from the Development Bank of Southern Africa and prominent businessman Mark Barnes, a long-time advocate for the elimination of pit toilets in South African schools. Speaking on the significance of this project, Ms Gwarube shared, “School safety is a priority for me in the 7th Administration. Our learners need safe, conducive learning environments; this includes basic facilities such as safe and dignified flushing toilets. Partnerships with the private sector and civil society will go a long way to eradicating all unsafe pit toilets in South Africa.” Her words resonated with Breadline Africa’s mission to ensure that every child can attend school in a safe, dignified environment.
Marion Wagner, CEO of Breadline Africa, highlighted the broader impact of the organisation’s pit toilet replacement campaign. “Every facility we install represents a meaningful step towards transforming the educational landscape in South Africa.
Beyond infrastructure, it’s about building an environment where children feel safe, valued and able to focus on their education. We are grateful to our partners and funders, whose support has been instrumental in bringing safe sanitation to thousands of learners,” Wagner said.
Mr. Macpherson added, "Our focus is to ensure that every child in South Africa has access to safe, hygienic, and dignified sanitary solutions in every school. Access to proper sanitation should not depend on the school fees you pay."
With 399 pit toilets removed and 607 low-flush and waterless toilets installed across 25 schools, Breadline Africa has directly impacted over 12,300 students and staff, creating healthier and more dignified learning environments. The new facilities at Deda Primary School include 22 low-flush toilets, eight waterless urinals and hand-washing stations, benefitting nearly 800 students. Mark Barnes, who has been vocal in his advocacy for addressing South Africa’s school sanitation crisis, stated, “This project is more than just the installation of facilities – it’s a profound shift toward equity and respect for the learners of this country. Breadline Africa’s work demonstrates what is possible when communities, civil society, and government unite for a common purpose.”
The urgency of Breadline Africa’s campaign is underscored by the fact that over 1 million South African children still use unsafe pit toilets daily, facing health risks that directly affect their school attendance, well-being, and safety. The impact is particularly severe for young children and girls, who are often the most vulnerable in unsafe sanitary conditions. Breadline Africa’s rapid and locally-driven solutions involve using 80% local labour, with installations completed in as little as three to six weeks. This turnkey approach ensures a sustainable impact, including on-site training and a five-year maintenance programme, which includes regular desludging and inspections.
Khulekani Dlamini, Chair of Breadline Africa, emphasised the importance of collaborative effort to make lasting change. “This mission is not simply about replacing pit toilets; it’s about building a legacy of care, safety and respect in every community we serve. We are committed to seeing a South Africa where every school is equipped with the sanitation facilities our children deserve, and we invite all stakeholders to join us in making this vision a reality.”
As Breadline Africa continues its efforts to bring safe sanitation to schools nationwide, the event at Deda Primary School serves as a testament to the power of partnership and shared purpose. Breadline Africa welcomes further support from public and private partners, knowing that every facility built represents a brighter, safer future for South African children. DM