By Christian Ahodie Yaw
As the world prepares to commemorate World Toilet Day on November 19, the people of Lemina in the Nkwanta North District of Ghana’s Oti Region continue to grapple with the indignity of open defecation. This rural community, with a population of over 4600, has no household or public toilets, forcing residents to resort to the bush.
The consequences are dire. Open defecation contaminates water sources, spreads diseases, and undermines human dignity.
Isaiah Adzogatse, a community health nurse, expressed concern about the situation, citing the alarming health risks posed by this practice.
“We’re concerned about the high incidence of water-borne diseases, particularly diarrhea and cholera, said a local health worker. The lack of toilets exposes residents, especially children and the elderly, to serious health hazards.
Despite efforts to end open defecation by 2030, Lemina remains one of the many communities lagging behind. The absence of household toilets and portable drinking water exacerbates the problem.
During a recent visit, our team from Africa Youth Development and Training Center and Ghana WASH Journalist Network witnessed the harsh realities faced by Lemina residents. We witnessed families, including children and the elderly, being forced to defecate in the open.
As we mark World Toilet Day, we urge authorities to prioritize sanitation infrastructure in Lemina and similar communities. The people of Lemina deserve dignity, safety, and access to basic amenities.
Call to Action:
We appeal to government agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders to support Lemina sanitation development, ensuring a healthier, more dignified life for its residents.
Over 4600 residents lack access to household toilets.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com