Ecuador:

The official inauguration of the Ecuadorian health centre took place on 30^th August 2003 in La Y (the centre having been operational since 17^th December 2001). It was attended by local dignitaries of the State of Esmeraldas (politicians, the mayor, the provincial director of health, the director of the district hospital etc.). Over 650 people from the various communities were present in La Y, in order to celebrate the day together. The ceremony itself reached national papers and radio. 

At the end of August, a workshop was held with 30 health workers (all from the communities) at the Health Centre in La Y to discuss the implementation and correct use of latrines. This project is funded by the British Embassy. FHN, together with the local communities, is installing the first latrines in every community in the region. The local health workers share their  knowledge to their neighbouring villagers in order to create positive change in hygiene and to decrease the overall frequency of illnesses.