This archive report was first published on 18 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, residents of Turkana County in Kenya have found an unconventional solution to keep the virus at bay.
With water scarcity being a major issue in their remote areas, residents have turned to using cow urine as a makeshift sanitizer.
According to Mr. Lokoliok Losike, a herder at Oropoi village, the urine is believed to have disinfectant properties, making it an effective alternative to soap and water.
"When there is no water, we use urine from the cattle," Mr. Losike said, highlighting the practicality of the solution in their situation.
On Thursday, Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok confirmed that the practice is indeed being used in remote areas, where water is scarce.
"The urine has been instrumental in disinfecting cows' udders and teats before milking," Governor Nanok said, adding that the practice has been effective in preventing the spread of the virus.
While the use of cow urine as a sanitizer may raise eyebrows, experts say it is a common practice among pastoralists in remote areas, where access to clean water is limited.
"For one to eat and he doubts his hands he can wash them using the urine when water is not available," said Mr. Titus Ekiru, a culture expert.
