Colgate-Palmolive (FIJI) Limited celebrated Global Handwashing Day on the 15th of October, 2026.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Ministry of Education, the people of Fiji were encouraged to spend 20 seconds washing their hands to help promote a healthier future for all. Global Handwashing Day plays an important role in educating individuals about hand washing and how integral it is in preventing the spread of infections and diseases.
The main launch of Global Handwashing Day was celebrated at Sawani Village School, seeing the participation of up to 24 Early Childhood Education (ECE) students. The event was hosted at the ECE level in recognition of the critical role early childhood education plays in establishing lifelong healthy habits.
Global Handwashing Day is a key annual event for Colgate-Palmolive which ties in with the Clean Hands Good Health (CHGH) programme, which has been active since 2010. This programme has positively impacted communities and places a key emphasis on the essential hand washing times:
After using the toilet.
After coughing or sneezing.
Before touching or preparing food.
After touching animals.
In addition, the programme also seeks to educate people on the 4 simple steps to washing hands:
Use soap and water.
Scrub and rub hands for 20 seconds.
Rinse hands with clean water.
Dry hands with a clean towel.
Through Colgate-Palmolive’s antibacterial soap brand, Protex, proper hand hygiene reduces the risk of diseases and infections. Under this year's 'Be A Handwashing Hero' theme, everyone was encouraged to take responsibility for maintaining better health and hygiene habits to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
The day called upon government houses and donors, businesses, suppliers, as well as communities, families, and individuals to practise regular hand washing to build healthy habits and maintain good health.
Colgate-Palmolive is committed to improving public health and wellbeing through proper hand hygiene practices in Fiji and across the Pacific.
The Global Handwashing Day celebration encouraged everyone to 'Be a Handwashing Hero' and make a difference through proper hand hygiene practices.
Click here to learn more about Global Handwashing Day
