As part of the FSM Action Research Project, Lusaka held a valuable focus group discussion with the pit emptying team to better understand the challenges they face in their day-to-day work.

The session was chaired by Karen Mweengwe, Public Health Specialist, and centred on health and safety concerns, exposure risks, and practical ways to ensure that pit emptiers can carry out their duties safely while minimizing the likelihood of infectious disease transmission.

A significant part of the discussion focused on PPE use, vaccinations, and access to health insurance, given the high-risk environments in which pit emptiers operate. Participants also reflected on the level of support they receive from key institutions such as the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC), NWASCO, and the Lusaka City Council, acknowledging their role in enabling safer working conditions.

Team members shared firsthand experiences on working conditions, protective measures, and the realities of manual emptying methods. A key highlight was the introduction and exploration of new technologies such as the Pupu Pump and the Pit Vac—tools many were using for the first time, offering the potential to significantly improve safety, efficiency, and dignity in their daily tasks.

This engagement provided an open platform for feedback, learning, and collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to supporting frontline sanitation workers with safer, more effective, and more dignified working systems.