15. Jul. 2024
With a Community Engagement Grant from the Grundfos Foundation, the groundbreaking PITSTOP! project sets out to eradicate illegal pit latrines and upgrade ablution facilities in underserved communities, providing safe and hygienic sanitation solutions.

In South Africa, many schools and informal settlements still rely on pit toilets, posing significant health risks. The PITSTOP! project is dedicated to transforming sanitation in South Africa by replacing dangerous pit toilets with modern, hygienic facilities.

The PITSTOP! project will directly impact a minimum of 45,000 people in different communities across South Africa.

“With the Community Engagement Grant, the Grundfos Foundation encourages Grundfos employees worldwide to address critical challenges in their local communities and act as a driver of sustainable change. We bring the funds, and they contribute with their volunteering hours,”  says Kim Nøhr Skibsted, Executive Director, Grundfos Foundation.

The PITSTOP! project addresses a fundamental human need and fosters community pride and ownership through educational programs and economic activities.

SOSNPO partners with Grundfos South Africa

Employees from Grundfos South Africa will be volunteering in building new infrastructure in Makause as well as in educational and WASH awareness activities with the residents.

illegal pit latrines in informal settlement.

The PITSTOP! Project aims to eradicate illegal pit latrines and upgrade ablution. Photo: SOSNPO

Makause Informal Settlement, Germiston, Johannesburg, comprises approximately 10,000 residents and lacks basic services such as sanitation, water and electricity. Residents typically resort to hand-dug pit latrines, while those without such structures, find alternative means for relieving themselves, such as open defecation. The settlement is built on a former mine, which further increases danger for the residents.

“The dire conditions in these informal settlements demand urgent action to improve sanitation standards for residents. This partnership will enable us to implement sustainable solutions that prioritise the health and dignity of individuals, including saving children from the dangers of pit toilets. Collaborating with SOS will make a tangible difference in the lives of those most affected by inadequate sanitation facilities.“
Peter Mashaba, Facilities Supervisor at Grundfos South Africa

By transforming containers into state-of-the-art sanitation hubs, PITSTOP! aims to improve the quality of life and well-being of residents in underserved communities.

Recycled container being refurbished as sanitation hub

State-of-the-art sanitation hubs made from recycled containers will improve the quality of life and well-being of residents in underserved communities.
Photo: SOSNPO

SOSNPO is a non-profit organization committed to creating impactful and sustainable actions in water accessibility, hygiene education, job creation, and climate change advocacy.

“This award from the Grundfos Foundation is a testament to our shared commitment to creating sustainable change. Together, we are not only addressing a critical sanitation issue but also fostering community resilience and empowerment.“
Shelley Humphreys, CEO of SOSNPO

Initiatives include launching innovative projects that address critical water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) barriers, promoting hygiene education, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

“The PITSTOP! project is a testament to our dedication to innovation and community empowerment. Through integrating waste management and educational programs, in partnership with UNESCO IHP we will create a model that can be replicated across Africa. Our goal is to drive sustainable change that improves health, well-being, dignity, and fosters economic growth.“
Rene Frank, Chairman of SOSNPO
Through collaboration, innovation, and engagement, SOS strives to address global challenges, promote sustainable development, and empower communities to achieve lasting change.

Community Engagement Grant

The Community Engagement Grants support employees of Grundfos and Grundfos companies who work with local NGOs, institutions, authorities, and philanthropic initiatives that address critical challenges in their communities.
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