Colgate-Palmolive Fiji is encouraging Fijians to make handwashing a daily habit as the country marks Global Handwashing Day today.

In partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Ministry of Education, the company is highlighting the importance of washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of infections and diseases.

This year’s celebrations are being launched at Sawani Village School, where up to 24 Early Childhood Education students are expected to participate in activities promoting proper hand hygiene.

The initiative focuses on teaching children healthy habits from an early age, with the aim of encouraging lifelong hygiene practices.

Colgate-Palmolive says its Clean Hands Good Health programme, which has been running since 2010, continues to educate communities about the importance of washing hands after using the toilet, coughing or sneezing, touching animals, and before preparing food.

Under this year’s theme, “Be a Handwashing Hero,” the company is also encouraging families and communities to take greater responsibility for maintaining good hygiene.

Colgate-Palmolive says regular handwashing remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the risk of infections and protect public health.