The Sanitation and Water Resources Ministry through a partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has commissioned a water system in Tuna in the Savanna region.

The completed project provides an estimated 8,000 people, Tuna residents with a sustained potable water source. 

The system will supply potable water to more than 6,000 people in the first year and more than 8,000 in subsequent years.

With two borehole water sources and a 12-meter-high, 100,000-liter water storage tank, the water system generates 13,800 litres of water per hour.

In line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 which is to “Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all,” the system flows to 12 public water standpipes throughout Tuna and adjacent communities, and separate water standpipes located at three basic schools.

Project Consultant explaining the operations of the small town water system

Although the Tuna water system is connected to the national electricity grid system, a solar back-up power source has been installed to address unforeseen power fluctuations.

To ensure the water system is sustainable, user fees are collected. The Tuna Water and Sanitation Board (consisting of local authorities, community members, and USAID) will manage the system.

Access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation facilities are fundamental for good health, and preconditions for economic and social development as Ghana progresses on its journey to self-reliance.

Poor sanitation is linked to stunting and malnutrition which negatively affect health and socio-economic outcomes in terms of disease and disability, brain development, educational attainment and income potential for individuals and communities.

USAID/Ghana representatives, Chiefs and Global communities representatives 

Through USAID, the American people support sustainable improvement in water and sanitation access and improve hygiene behaviours in 30 districts in nine regions: North-East, Savannah, Volta, Oti, Western, Western-North, Central, Eastern, and Greater Accra. 

USAID also supports household latrines construction; improves WASH infrastructure for schools and health facilities; social and behaviour change communication activities to promote sanitation and hygiene at the community level; cholera prevention campaigns; and advocacy for more equitable water and sanitation health policies.