We are an NGO supporting the self-reliance of local people.
NICCO aims for the spiritual and economic independence of local people. We always consider "what happens after NICCO leaves," with the goal of enabling local people to live independently on their own. To that end, we introduce some of NICCO's representative initiatives below.
Eco-San Toilet
NICCO works in the regions where it operates to improve village sanitation and generate income through the construction of Ecological Sanitation Toilets, abbreviated as "Eco-San Toilets."
Eco-San toilets are elevated structures built above ground level. This design prevents rainwater from washing away feces and urine, thereby protecting water resources and land from sewage contamination. After each use, ash is sprinkled over the waste. The feces are then left to decompose in a storage pit for about six months to sterilize them before being returned to the soil as compost. Urine, collected separately, is diluted with water and used as liquid fertilizer.Fertilizer from Ecotoilets increases crop yields by 1.2 to 2.5 times compared to fields without fertilizer, reducing the need for expensive chemical fertilizers.
Ecotoilets are primarily constructed by local villagers. NICCO only teaches the construction method. This approach ensures that even after NICCO withdraws, the villagers themselves can continue promoting Ecotoilets within their community.
Countries where activities have been conducted in the past
・Kenya: Building Villages Using Eco-Sante Toilets
・Myanmar: Supporting Ethnic Minorities
・Malawi: Building Villages Free from Hunger
Mental Health Care After Disasters and Conflicts
Disasters and conflicts that not only threaten people's lives but also sometimes take away cherished family members, friends, and possessions.
The shock and grief of losing something precious can become trauma, and if it remains buried within the mind without healing or being overcome, there is a risk it may manifest as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Furthermore, in conflict situations, if unfamiliar life in evacuation camps becomes prolonged, the wounds inflicted on the mind may never heal, and the stress of life in the camps can worsen symptoms.
NICCO's "Emotional Care" program helps individuals confront the events that caused emotional wounds, process them, and regain the freedom to live without being dominated by painful emotions. Through workshops utilizing theater and storytelling, participants express their difficult experiences and feelings. These expressions are accepted as they are by others, creating opportunities for mutual sharing.
Countries where activities have been conducted in the past