Kyauktaw IDP camps struggle with inadequate latrines

By Admin 07 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

7 February 2026, Kyauktaw

Internally displaced people (IDPs) at camps in Kyauktaw, Arakan State, are calling for the construction of additional latrines, saying existing facilities are insufficient for the growing population.

IDPs at the COC and Kavi Yadana displacement camps said they are facing serious difficulties due to a mismatch between the number of residents and available latrines.

“There are nearly 400 people here, but of the 16 latrines, only about five are still functional. It is very difficult during emergencies. We also lack basic supplies such as water containers and brushes. Some latrines have even collapsed,” said Ko Maung Win Naing from the COC displacement camp.

The COC displacement camp shelters 108 households, with nearly 400 people displaced by conflict in Sittwe, Rathedaung and Thandwe townships.

Most camp residents rely on casual labour for their livelihoods and said they are unable to construct latrines through self-help efforts due to limited humanitarian assistance and ongoing livelihood hardships.

“There are many challenges. The number of latrines is too low for such a large population, and even the existing ones are not fully functional. Repairs are sometimes made, but the latrines become unusable again within a month,” said the manager of the Kavi Yadana displacement camp.

The Kavi Yadana camp, which is home to nearly 300 IDPs, has 24 latrines, but about 10 are currently damaged and out of service, according to a camp official.

IDPs warned that the shortage of latrines and poor sanitation in crowded camps could lead to health problems, with women facing the greatest difficulties.

“We are worried about our health. When someone has diarrhoea, they sometimes find the latrines are occupied. Diarrhoea is a communicable disease. Women also rely on latrines for personal hygiene. Since there is no separate bathing area, it is even harder for us,” said a displaced woman from the Kavi Yadana camp.

IDPs in Kyauktaw said they have not received humanitarian aid for years and are currently in need of winter clothing and food supplies. They also said there is an urgent need to repair or rebuild deteriorating shelters in the camps.

The number of IDPs in Arakan State has risen to more than 600,000, many of whom are facing severe livelihood difficulties due to a lack of stable employment and declining humanitarian assistance.