Transforming Ghana's Future: Uniting Against Sanitation Crisis for a Healthier, Prosperous Nation

Ghana's sanitation crisis is a ticking time bomb, threatening the lives of thousands of citizens, especially children under five, who die annually from diarrhea-related illnesses (World Health Organization, 2019). The economy also suffers, losing a staggering $290 million annually due to inadequate waste management and hygiene practices (World Bank, 2020).

Growing up in Accra, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of proper waste disposal. My mother's concerns about risking her health and the environment resonated deeply. Unfortunately, this reality persists for many Ghanaians. In Accra's Old Fadama slum, residents lack access to basic sanitation services, forcing them to practice open defecation (Ghana Statistical Service, 2020). The stench from the nearby Korle Lagoon, a dumping site for human waste and industrial waste, is a constant reminder of the crisis.

Despite the government's 2016 pledge to make Accra the cleanest city in Africa, the city's streets and markets remain plagued by garbage, and the drainage system is overwhelmed. Alarming statistics highlight the severity of the crisis:

• 1.1 million tons of solid waste are generated annually, with only 10% properly disposed of (World Bank, 2020).
• Over 50% of the population lacks access to basic sanitation services, resorting to open defecation (Ghana Statistical Service, 2020).
• 5,000 children under five die annually from diarrhea-related illnesses (World Health Organization, 2019).

However, there is hope. Individuals can contribute by: - Properly disposing of waste in designated bins

• Participating in community clean-ups
• Supporting sanitation projects
• Advocating for policies and infrastructure development

The government, civil society, and private sector must also:

• Invest in modern landfills and recycling facilities
• Develop effective policies and regulations
• Provide access to basic sanitation services

Let us unite to create a sanitation revolution that saves lives, fuels economic growth, and protects our environment. We urge the government to allocate funds for sanitation infrastructure development and enforcement of sanitation policies. We call on civil society organizations to intensify public awareness campaigns and support community-led sanitation initiatives. We encourage the private sector to invest in sustainable waste management solutions. Together, we can make Ghana a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous nation for future generations.

References: - Ghana Statistical Service (2020). Ghana Living Standards Survey Round 7. Accra: Ghana Statistical Service. - Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources (2020). National Sanitation and Hygiene Policy. Accra: Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources. - World Bank (2020). Ghana Waste Management Sector Report. Washington, D.C.: World Bank. - World Health Organization (2019). Ghana Country Profile. Geneva: World Health Organization.