The CEO of Sanitized Communities Konnect Foundation, a non-profit organization, Jacob Fenteng, has called for urgent attention to address sanitation issues in Gidikpoe, a farming community in the Central Tongu District of the Volta Region.
In an interview with Adom News to mark the 2024 World Toilet Day celebration, Mr. Fenteng disclosed that underserved communities in the Volta Region, like Mafi Gidikpoe, face numerous sanitation challenges.
The celebration was held under the theme: ” Toilet – A Place of peace”
He stated that nearly four billion people worldwide lack access to safe sanitation, which is almost half of the global population, and Mafi Gidikpoe is no exception.
He added that without proper toilet facilities, individuals are exposed to diseases, dignity is compromised, and development is hindered.
Mr. Fenteng noted that sanitation issues contribute to approximately 500,000 deaths each year from preventable diseases like diarrhea and cholera, among others.
For that reason, SANCOK Foundation has begun sanitation awareness creation in various communities.
“Sanitation is not just about toilets; it’s about health, dignity, and development. I call on all residents to commit to ensuring that everyone, everywhere, has access to safe and clean toilets. Together, we can make a difference,” he urged.
He pledged the foundation’s commitment to continue its sensitization efforts and also took the opportunity to appeal to NGOs, organizations, and individuals to support its worthy cause.
SANCOK Foundation has assisted Mawuli Estate in Ho to attain the status of the first urban community in Ghana to be declared Open Defecation Free (ODF).
Through this achievement, Mawuli Estate was fortunate to access the Basic Sanitation Fund from UNICEF Ghana, through the Ho Municipal Assembly.
To date, Mawuli Estate still maintains its ODF status.
Mr. Fenteng, therefore, thanked UNICEF Ghana, the Netherlands Embassy, and EDSAM Social Network for their support.