These aren’t your usual ‘smellies’! These bars of soap will improve conditions for people in emergency situations and help raise standards of hygiene to prevent the spread of disease.

In July and August 2007, heavy rains in eastern and northern Uganda led to flooding. Many homes in these areas were built with mud bricks that crumbled in the wet conditions. More than 400,000 people were affected, with many having to find shelter with friends and family members, in school buildings or in camps for displaced people. The flooding caused major problems for water and sanitation. Dirty flood waters contaminated sources of drinking water like wells and caused latrines to overflow or collapse. There were serious concerns about possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera.

Oxfam responded by distributing vital hygiene equipment, like soap. Soap is vital to help people keep themselves, their clothes and their homes clean. It can help stop the spread of cholera and diarrhoea, as well as preventing skin diseases.