President John Dramani Mahama has directed all district assemblies to withhold building permits for any construction projects that do not include adequate sanitation facilities.

This move forms part of intensified efforts to eradicate open defecation, a continuing problem that poses serious risks to public health and the environment in various regions across the country.

Speaking at the launch of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Voluntary National Report, President Mahama stressed the need for rigorous enforcement of building codes to ensure that all new homes, businesses, and public buildings are equipped with fully functional toilets.

“It is unacceptable that in 2025, open defecation remains prevalent in some parts of Ghana,” he stated. “This is more than a health issue; it concerns dignity and fairness. Our sanitation crisis stems not from ignorance but from shortcomings in investment, enforcement, and community involvement. We must act decisively to end this practice.”

President Mahama questioned why open defecation persists despite existing bylaws mandating sanitation facilities for obtaining building permits.

“All district assemblies have bylaws stipulating that no building permit should be granted without sanitation facilities. So how is it that open defecation, sometimes referred to jokingly as ‘free range,’ still occurs? The most troubling part is that some claim they prefer it for the ‘air conditioning at their rear end,’” he remarked.

He urged local authorities to take their responsibilities seriously and enforce the regulations firmly. “District assemblies must uphold their bylaws. No building should proceed without proper sanitation facilities,” he concluded.