Ada: Professor Prince Boateng, Principal of the Ada College of Education, has announced plans to build 1,500 biodigester toilets in homes across the Ada East District. This initiative aims to significantly reduce open defecation in the area.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation proposed this project following the establishment of a biodigester training center at the Ada College of Education in March 2024. Prof. Boateng stated that the college is currently waiting for collaboration with the District Assembly to assess which homes are in urgent need of these facilities.
He highlighted that the cost of each biodigester unit would range from GHS 5,000.00 to GHS 9,000.00, which is more affordable compared to market prices. These advanced biodigesters require minimal space, offering homes a cost-effective solution for waste management and reducing the need for septic tank dislodging.
Prof. Boateng noted that previously, the college spent approximately GHC45,000.00 on dislodging septic tanks. By opting for biodigesters, the institution not only cuts costs but also sets a precedent for community adoption of this sustainable technology.
The biodigesters alleviate the need for deep manholes or tanks, addressing public concerns about high-water table issues in coastal areas. Prof. Boateng mentioned plans to organize further training sessions in biodigester construction for local artisans. These sessions will require participants to have basic reading and writing skills, although previous sessions accommodated artisans by training them in local languages.
He urged the community, especially residents of Ada, to engage in the training programs to gain valuable skills and aid in reducing open defecation in the district.