Poor Attitudes, Weak Enforcement Fuel Ghana’s Sanitation Crisis — Hajia Sibdow
Poor public attitudes, weak enforcement of sanitation by-laws and inadequate sanitation infrastructure have been identified as major factors contributing to Ghana’s persistent sanitation challenges.
Hajia Sibdow Baba Fati, a retired Deputy Regional Officer in charge of the Environment, Health and Sanitation Unit of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC), made the observation during an interview on Northciti Breakfast Avenue on Northciti Radio.
She said efforts to improve sanitation would continue to face challenges if residents failed to adopt responsible attitudes towards waste disposal and environmental cleanliness.
According to her, although sanitation by-laws are in place to regulate activities and promote clean communities, weak enforcement remains a major setback.
She also identified inadequate sanitation infrastructure as another challenge that requires attention to support effective waste management and improve environmental conditions.
Hajia Sibdow Baba Fati called for stronger enforcement of existing sanitation regulations, coupled with sustained public education to encourage behavioural change among residents.
She said improving sanitation should not be left solely to government and local authorities, stressing the need for individuals and communities to take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean.
The retired sanitation officer further noted that effective collaboration among residents, local assemblies and relevant state institutions would be essential in addressing the country’s sanitation challenges.
Poor sanitation continues to raise environmental and public health concerns in several communities, with improper waste disposal contributing to pollution and unhealthy living conditions.
Her comments on Northciti Breakfast Avenue highlight the need for a comprehensive approach that combines public education, enforcement of sanitation laws and investment in appropriate sanitation infrastructure.
She said a change in public attitudes, supported by effective enforcement and adequate facilities, could significantly improve sanitation conditions across Ghana.
