Only 59.3% of Ghanaian households have access to improved toilet facilities, the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) has disclosed. This figure, derived from the 2021 Population and Housing Census, highlights persistent sanitation challenges across the nation. The Ministry’s statement, marking the 2026 African Day for Decentralisation and Local Development, underscores the urgent need for action.
This low access rate contrasts with better performance in drinking water provision. Approximately 87.7% of households have access to basic drinking water services. Furthermore, 92% of households use improved sources of drinking water. However, access to basic drinking water services shows significant geographical disparities. Urban areas report 96.4% access, while rural areas lag at 74.4%.
The ongoing sanitation challenge fits into Ghana's broader economic development goals. Improved sanitation is crucial for public health, productivity, and sustainable urbanisation. The disparities in access, particularly between urban and rural areas, reflect long-standing inequalities in infrastructure development. Addressing these gaps is vital for achieving inclusive growth and improving the quality of life for all citizens.
The Ministry of Local Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local governments. It aims to achieve this through improved institutional capacity, sustainable financing arrangements, and stronger multi-stakeholder partnerships. This commitment seeks to enhance the delivery of water and sanitation services nationwide. The Ministry stressed the critical role of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in planning and coordinating these essential services.
What happens next involves increased focus on local governance and community participation. Decision-makers will need to allocate more resources to sanitation infrastructure. They must also foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including Regional Coordinating Councils, Ghana Water Limited, and traditional authorities. This collaborative approach is essential for extending services to underserved communities and promoting responsible water use.
The 2026 African Day for Decentralisation and Local Development is themed “Empowered Local Governments for Sustainable Water and Sanitation: Advancing Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Territories towards Agenda 2063.” This annual observance, held on August 10, aligns with the African Charter on the Values and Principles of Decentralisation. Ghana’s continued decentralisation reforms aim to empower MMDAs to drive inclusive and sustainable local development. This includes addressing critical areas like sanitation.
Strengthening local governments is essential for building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities. It directly improves the quality of life for citizens. The Ministry highlighted the importance of partnerships with development partners and civil society organisations. These collaborations are necessary to extend water and sanitation services to hard-to-reach areas. They also foster community ownership of development interventions, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Traditional and religious leaders play a significant role in mobilising communities. They promote behavioural change and support initiatives focused on sanitation and environmental stewardship. Their involvement is crucial for the success of any national sanitation strategy. The call for renewed commitment from all stakeholders underscores the complexity and importance of this national issue. Ghana’s economic future depends on healthy and productive citizens, which improved sanitation directly supports.