Colgate-Palmolive (PNG) Ltd. officially launched Global Handwashing Day 2025 today, on October 14, through its Protex Brand.
In collaboration with the National Department of Health, the initiative aimed to encourage individuals to dedicate 20 seconds to washing their hands regularly, as a simple but effective step toward better health for all.
The main event took place at South Bridges International School, Port Moresby where 200 students and staff participated in handwashing.
More than 370,000 people across the country, including participants from 527 schools, registered to take part in the campaign.
Since starting off in 2012, the Clean Hands Good Health (CHGH) program has reached over 2 million children in the country, making a lasting impact on the country’s health and hygiene practices.
The program emphasized the importance of washing hands at key moments to prevent the spread of infections and diseases, including:
- After using the toilet
- After coughing or sneezing
- Before preparing or touching food
- After handling animals
The initiative also educated participants on the four simple steps to effective handwashing:
- Use soap and water
- Scrub and rub hands for 20 seconds
- Rinse with clean water
- Dry with a clean towel
According to health experts, effective handwashing can reduce the risk of diarrheal diseases by 30% and lower respiratory infections by up to 20%.
Hand hygiene plays a critical role in preventing the transmission of communicable diseases, helping reduce the number of unhealthy infections in communities across the country.
This year’s theme, "Be A Handwashing Hero", encourages individuals to take responsibility for their health and wellbeing by adopting regular handwashing habits.
The campaign calls upon government bodies, businesses, schools, families, and individuals to come together and practice proper hand hygiene.
Colgate-Palmolive (PNG) Ltd. emphasized that the launch of Global Handwashing Day is part of its continued commitment to improving public health and wellbeing through proper hygiene practices.
The company aims to foster healthier communities and reduce the spread of preventable diseases.
Everyone is encouraged to take part in this important initiative and become a Handwashing Hero.
By doing so, they contribute to building a healthier future for all.
