Reckitt, Chil Group target 650,000 pupils in hygiene drive

What the report says

Reckitt, the maker of Dettol, and Chil Group have launched the third phase of their school hygiene programme in Uganda, with a target of reaching 650,000 pupils in four districts: Kampala, Mpigi, Kabarole and Kabale. The programme, called Dettol Hygiene Quest, was introduced in Kampala on September 15, 2026, according to The Independent Uganda.

The partners say the latest phase will expand hygiene education, practical demonstrations, digital monitoring and the distribution of products such as Dettol antibacterial soap. Participating schools are expected to receive lessons on handwashing, personal hygiene and disease prevention, while tracking tools will be used to follow implementation and measure progress.

Chil Group said the programme builds on earlier phases that reportedly reduced hygiene-related absenteeism, and Reckitt said the expansion is intended to support lasting behaviour change and cut preventable illnesses such as diarrhoea. The initiative also encourages pupils to pass hygiene messages on to their families and communities.

Uganda’s Minister of State for Water and Environment, Aisha Sekindi, attended the launch and praised the partnership for supporting sanitation and healthier learning environments. The report places the effort within broader goals for water, health and education, reflecting continued attention to school hygiene as a public health and attendance issue.