Political Parties Commit to Prioritizing WASH as they Sign CONIWAS Ghana’s Manifesto on WASH
We are thrilled to announce that CONIWAS Ghana’s WASH Manifesto, which emphasizes the urgent need for universal access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) by 2030, has been officially endorsed by the NDC, NPP, and hashtagCPP. These leading political parties have pledged to make WASH a priority in their agendas if elected as the next government.
The manifesto highlights Ghana’s current challenges, such as disparities in access (87.7% for water vs. 25.3% for sanitation), funding gaps, and climate-related risks. It underscores the critical role of WASH in public health, education, productivity, and economic development.
What This Means for Ghana:
1. Political Commitment: The parties involved have reached a consensus to incorporate Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives into their existing policies, allocate appropriate funding within their budgets, and ensure that these initiatives are a fundamental component of their development plans.
2. Increased Sector Financing: Recognizing the significant gap in funding required for progress, they have identified an annual investment of $1.7 billion necessary to bridge this shortfall effectively. In light of this, they are fully committed to implementing strategies and initiatives to address these funding deficiencies, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately to meet critical needs and support ongoing development efforts.
3. Collaboration Across Sectors: Enhancing the interconnections between water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), public health, climate action, and agricultural practices is essential for promoting sustainable development. By fostering collaboration among these sectors, we can create integrated solutions that not only improve access to clean water and sanitation but also enhance health outcomes, support climate resilience, and boost agricultural productivity. This holistic approach ensures that communities are equipped to address the challenges posed by climate change while simultaneously promoting well-being and food security.
4. Accountability and Monitoring: Creating comprehensive frameworks that systematically monitor progress and evaluate outcomes is essential. These frameworks would include clear metrics and milestones to track advancements over time, as well as mechanisms for regularly assessment of effectiveness. By implementing structured processes for data collection and analysis, organizations can ensure accountability and transparency, ultimately leading to improved results and informed decision-making.
This historic commitment underscores that WASH is not just a human right but a cornerstone for Ghana’s sustainable growth. By prioritizing WASH, these political parties are taking steps to create a healthier, more equitable future for all Ghanaians.
