Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Professor Lord Mawuko-Yevugah, a lecturer at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has urged the government to prioritize the provision of sanitation facilities in schools, particularly for girls.
Speaking at the Women’s WASH Conference 2025 organised by Women in WASH Advocacy Network-Ghana in Accra on Thursday, April 3, 2025, Prof. Mawuko-Yevugah emphasized that inadequate washroom facilities in schools pose health risks to girls, including infections that can lead to absenteeism and negatively impact their academic performance.
The Women’s WASH Conference, themed “Accelerate Action: Scaling Investments to Prioritize Women’s WASH Needs,” served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss the unique challenges faced by women and girls in accessing sanitation and hygiene facilities.
Prof. Mawuko-Yevugah highlighted that the government’s transition to KVIP toilets in the 1980s, primarily due to water shortages, has proven inadequate for the needs of girls.
He stressed the necessity for intentional and deliberate policymaking to address the distinct requirements of women and girls.
Hon. Rita Naa Odorley Sowah in a group picture with some traditional leaders
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs Rita Naa Odoley Sowah called upon local leaders to support initiatives that improve sanitation and hygiene in markets and public spaces.
Hon. Sowah underlined the importance of proper washroom facilities, especially for women, to prevent health and hygiene issues.
“The lack of adequate washroom facilities can lead to serious health problems, particularly for menstruating women,” she noted.
“It is essential that we engage men in our advocacy efforts, not just as bystanders, but as active participants.”
Hon. Sowah announced plans to collaborate with local radio stations, schools, and communities to promote good sanitation and hygiene practices.
Government Urged to Prioritize Sanitation Facilities in Schools and Public Spaces
She also pledged to work with her minister to address the challenges raised during the conference.
Participants were encouraged to share their stories of transformation and progress within their respective areas, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.
As a Member of Parliament for La Dade-Kotopon, Hon. Sowah brings extensive experience in local governance and community development.
Her role as Deputy Minister is expected to enhance efforts in decentralization, governance reforms, and collaboration with traditional and religious institutions to promote community development.
Both Prof. Mawuko-Yevugah and Hon. Sowah stressed the need for increased investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives, citing that Ghana requires approximately $1.7 billion annually to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
