Government has improved sanitation in one-and-a-half years — Zuwera

Member of Parliament Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah has refuted claims of limited progress in improving sanitation and water services under the present government. Discussing the matter with JoyNews’ Stephen Menash, she reported visible improvements in several communities within the Volta and Oti Regions, as revealed by the Committee's field monitoring activities.

Ms Zuwera affirmed that residents and local authorities have introduced sanitation interventions that are starting to transform conditions in certain communities. She recounted witnessing the positive changes in Nkwanta South, a locality she traverses to reach her constituency, as proof of the changes. However, Ms Zuwera emphasized that these improvements signify that the sanitation situation is not entirely resolved.

She stated that while significant progress has been made over the past one and a half years, there is still ample room for further development. The Committee's field visits have also underscored that attaining better sanitation necessitates more than monetary investment from the government. Ms Zuwera stressed the critical role of altering behavior at the household and community levels.

She pointed to the increasing awareness among communities about household waste management as an encouraging trend. According to Ms Zuwera, the foundation of sanitation efforts lies at the local assembly level, emphasizing that effective management at the household level is crucial before addressing it on a national scale. The remarks follow the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sanitation and Water Resources continuing its nationwide monitoring exercise, which involves engaging Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to evaluate funded sanitation and water projects.

While acknowledging the progress, Ms Zuwera stressed the ongoing nature of the sanitation challenge, requiring continuous investment and increased accountability from households, communities, and local authorities.