Residents of Ashaiman in the Greater Accra Region were educated on the importance of sanitation and hygiene during the commemoration of this year’s World Toilet Day.

The event, organised by Plan International Ghana, an NGO, as part of the broader “Stronger Together" project, took place on November 19, 2024, at the Cluster of Schools Park in Ashaiman.

The initiative forms part of a larger effort to address the sanitation challenges faced by low-income urban communities in Ghana.

The "Stronger Together" project aims to improve living conditions in Ashaiman by encouraging safe sanitation practices, reducing open defecation, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

The project also incorporates a waste-to-energy model to recycle faecal and organic waste into useful products such as biogas, electricity, and organic fertilisers.

World Toilet Day, established in 2013 by the United Nations, highlights the critical global need for sanitation.

It serves as a stark reminder of the health, environmental, and social consequences of inadequate sanitation, which affects billions worldwide.

The day emphasises the connection between sanitation and essential aspects of life, including health, education, and economic productivity.

This year’s celebration in Ashaiman focused on inspiring behavioural change within the community.

It brought together local authorities, traditional and religious leaders, schoolchildren, and other stakeholders for an engaging and educational programme.

Activities included cultural displays, drama performances, and poetry recitals, all designed to underscore the importance of sanitation in a relatable and impactful manner.

A keynote address delivered by sanitation and health experts highlighted the significance of proper waste management and its role in fostering healthier communities.

Community and religious leaders also addressed the audience, encouraging them to adopt sustainable practices such as proper waste disposal and critical hygiene habits, including handwashing with soap.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about transforming faecal and organic waste into valuable resources.

Partner organisations, such as Safisana, demonstrated how waste can be converted into energy and fertilisers, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.

The event drew approximately 185 participants, including traditional authorities, government representatives, schoolchildren, and members of the media.

Beyond these attendees, the wider Ashaiman community was invited to reflect on the importance of sanitation for public health and environmental conservation.

Organisers expressed hope that the event would inspire participants to become sanitation ambassadors in their communities, spreading the message of cleanliness and proper waste management.

The "Stronger Together" project envisions a cleaner, healthier Ashaiman where sustainable sanitation practices are standard.

This year’s World Toilet Day celebration marks a critical step towards achieving that goal, demonstrating that collaboration and commitment can lead to transformative change.