ACCRA: WaterAid Ghana, an organization focused on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), has urged for heightened investment in sanitation facilities to effectively address the issue of open defecation. The call was made during activities marking World Toilet Day, highlighting the critical role of WASH in achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to health and education.
According to Ghana News Agency, WaterAid Ghana’s Country Director, Ms. Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur, emphasized the need for accessible WASH facilities across healthcare, educational institutions, households, and public spaces to foster positive behaviors and eradicate open defecation. Her appeal was delivered through a speech during durbars held in the Upper East Region under the theme ‘Toilet: a place for peace.’
The events were part of the Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) project, supported by Global Affairs Canada, and implemented by a consortium including Right to Play, WaterAid Ghana, and others. The initiative targets
gender equality by providing sexual and reproductive education and enhancing care for young people, particularly girls and young women.
Ms. Yanyi-Akofur underscored the financial toll of poor sanitation on health, advocating for universal access to safe sanitation to enhance community health and dignity. She stated, “A clean and safe toilet is not just a facility; it is a symbol of respect, equity, and social cohesion.”
Ms. Fauzia Aliu, WaterAid Ghana’s Advocacy Manager, highlighted the persistence of open defecation, notably in rural areas, and its link to preventable diseases. She urged governmental bodies to prioritize WASH facilities for schools and health centers to ensure inclusive sanitation access.
Mr. Stephen Bordotsiah, Acting Builsa North Municipal Director of the Ghana Health Service, noted progress in eliminating open defecation since 2015, but warned of relapses that reintroduce health risks like cholera and dysentery. Mr. Cabral Bantiu Vwawojei, Acting Kassena-Nankana Municipal Director, cal
led for sustained advocacy to integrate WASH facilities in new health and educational infrastructure.