World Vision Ghana Calls for Action on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
World Vision Ghana has pressed stakeholders to transition from mere awareness to concrete actions regarding water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) issues, as a concerning 63% of residents in the Upper East Region continue to engage in open defecation.
WASH Challenges Impacting Public Health
In a recent address, Mr. Joshua Baidoo, the Interim National Director of World Vision Ghana, highlighted that the prevalence of open defecation poses significant threats to public health and hinders the nation’s progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Six, which emphasizes the importance of clean water and sanitation for all.
The target under SDG 6.2 aims for equitable access to adequate sanitation and hygiene by 2030, calling for a complete end to open defecation and focusing on the needs of women, girls, and other vulnerable populations.
Leadership Summit Highlights Goals for Hygiene Promotion
Mr. Baidoo made these remarks at the Regional Hygiene and WASH Leadership Summit 2026 held in Bolgatanga. The event was themed: “Be a Handwashing Hero – From Awareness to Action: Accelerating Infrastructure, Policy and Financing for Hygiene.”
The Need for Action Beyond Awareness
During his speech, Baidoo emphasized that the summit’s significance lies in transforming discussions into actionable outcomes. He stressed that underserved communities must gain access to safe water, proper sanitation services, and the means to practice improved hygiene.
“We are not here merely to commemorate an occasion but to reaffirm our collective duty to safeguard lives, enhance community resilience, and pave the way for a healthier future for all,” he stated.
Handwashing as a Key Public Health Measure
Baidoo pointed out that handwashing with soap stands as one of the most straightforward and cost-effective methods for enhancing public health. He noted, “A simple act that takes under a minute can prevent illnesses, lower child mortality rates, increase school attendance, safeguard healthcare environments, and greatly enhance economic productivity.”
Continued Challenges Despite Investments
Despite commending the significant investments made by World Vision Ghana and its partners, Baidoo expressed concern over the persistent challenges. He acknowledged that millions across Africa, including many in local communities, still lack basic handwashing facilities, consistent water supply, and sufficient sanitation measures.
Government Support and Future Directions
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, praised World Vision Ghana for organizing the summit, indicating that previous administrations had not sufficiently addressed the WASH crisis. He committed to ongoing investments in water infrastructure aimed at communities facing severe shortages.
Mr. Akamugri also mentioned that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, the government seeks to strengthen its collaboration with World Vision Ghana, academic institutions, and other developmental entities.
Aligning Efforts with Development Frameworks
He encouraged World Vision Ghana, corporate bodies, and other stakeholders to coordinate their endeavors with the Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience, and Livelihoods (PEARL) Framework, which outlines a ten-year developmental strategy for the region.
Reported by Francis Dabre Dabang, Bolgatanga
Discussion about this post