Accra: The government has pledged to combat cholera outbreaks by improving access to safe drinking water and enhancing sanitation delivery. Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, made this pledge during a panel discussion on safe drinking water delivery.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ibrahim emphasized that access to safe drinking water is critical in preventing cholera. The government aims to address water pollution sources, including poor management of solid and liquid waste. In addition, a national sanitation day will be reintroduced, featuring periodic clean-up activities to eliminate filth in cities, towns, and homes, thereby improving public health.
The Minister disclosed plans to consider establishing a national sanitation authority as the sole institution to regulate and coordinate sanitation issues in the country. "The sustainable delivery of safe drinking water and improved sanitation are top priorities of this government. We shall ensure that our cities are kept clean so that no form of waste finds its way into water resources and drinking water sources," he stated.
Records from the Ghana Health Service indicate that the country has been grappling with a cholera outbreak since October, which claimed 49 lives by March.
