The serene town of Anlo Afiadenyigba in the Volta Region is facing a dire sanitation crisis that threatens both the health and well-being of its residents. The situation has reached a critical point, prompting urgent calls for intervention from both the government and various stakeholders to address the pressing issues of waste management and environmental cleanliness.

Torgbui Kadzahlo Drabese IV, the Paramount Chief of Anlo Afiadenyigba, has raised alarm over the deteriorating sanitation conditions in the town.

In a recent address to the community, he emphasized the need for immediate and concerted efforts to tackle the mounting waste and unsanitary practices that have become rampant.

"The current state of sanitation in Anlo Afiadenyigba is unacceptable. Our town, known for its rich culture and history, is now plagued with indiscriminate waste disposal and poor sanitary conditions," Torgbui Drabese IV stated. "This is not only a health hazard but also tarnishes the image of our beloved community. We must act now to restore cleanliness and dignity to our town."

Gabriel Kwabla Kuatsikor, the Assembly Member for the area, echoed the sentiments of the Paramount Chief, calling for immediate government intervention and community cooperation to address the sanitation crisis. Kuatsikor highlighted the critical role that both governmental support and behavioural change among residents play in resolving the issue.

"Our efforts to maintain a clean environment have been hampered by inadequate resources and a lack of proper waste management infrastructure," Kuatsikor remarked. "However, it is also essential for residents to adopt better waste disposal practices and take personal responsibility for keeping our town clean. This requires a significant shift in mindset and behaviour."

The Assembly Member pointed out specific areas in need of urgent attention, including the provision of more waste bins, regular collection and disposal of waste, and the establishment of a proper waste management system.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of educational campaigns to raise awareness about the impact of poor sanitation on public health and the environment.

"The government and relevant stakeholders must prioritize the sanitation needs of Anlo Afiadenyigba. We need immediate financial and logistical support to implement sustainable waste management solutions. Furthermore, community engagement and education are crucial to ensure that residents understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment," Kuatsikor added.

Both Torgbui Kadzahlo Drabese IV and Gabriel Kwabla Kuatsikor have called for a collaborative approach, involving traditional leaders, local authorities, community members, and external partners, to address the sanitation crisis effectively. They emphasized that without unity and collective action, efforts to improve the town's sanitation conditions would be futile.

In response to the calls for action, several community leaders and organizations have pledged their support. Initiatives such as regular clean-up exercises, environmental education programmes, and partnerships with waste management companies are being considered to mitigate the crisis.

As Anlo Afiadenyigba grapples with this pressing issue, the message from its leaders is clear: urgent intervention and behavioural changes are essential to restore the town's cleanliness and ensure a healthier, more welcoming environment for all.

The community remains hopeful that with coordinated efforts and a commitment to sustainable practices, Anlo Afiadenyigba can overcome its sanitation challenges and reclaim its status as a clean and vibrant town.

However, to tackle the persistent sanitation challenges in Anlo Afiadenyigba, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Keta, Emmanuel Gemegah, has emphasized the crucial role of community participation in maintaining cleanliness and eradicating open defecation.

Speaking with Joy News, Mr Gemegah highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the assembly to improve sanitation across the municipality. "We are doing everything within our capacity to address the sanitation issues in our communities. However, the success of these efforts largely depends on the active involvement of our residents," he stated.

MCE Gemegah called on residents to change their attitudes towards sanitation and take personal responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean. "It is imperative that each of us plays our part in maintaining a hygienic environment. Open defecation is not only a public health hazard but also a threat to the dignity and image of our community," he said.

He urged community members to utilize the available sanitation facilities and to support the assembly's initiatives by participating in clean-up activities and educating others on the importance of proper waste disposal. "We must work together to ensure that our communities are well-kept and clean. Let us do everything possible to put a stop to open defecation," the MCE appealed.