Tema-Ghana, Nov. 17, MNN – Open Defecation is an affront to the dignity of mankind, “let us respect our dignity and stop the practice,” the Media Coalition Against Open Defecation (M-CODe) has stated as a prelude to the commemoration of the 2022 World Toilet Day on November 19.
M-CODe expressed concern that in the 21st Century a section of Ghanaians both in rural and urban communities continue to practice Open Defecation, stressing that “this is unacceptable and all must work together to confront the problem to eliminate open defecation and make Ghana Open Defecation Free state”.
M-CODe, therefore, calls on Traditional Leaders, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, Religious Leaders, Civil Society Organizations, and Political establishments to work toward Open Defecation Free society.
In a statement signed by Mr. Francis Ameyibor, M-CODe National Convener and copied to the Myliberty News Network (MNN) in Tema, described Open Defecation as an affront to the dignity of mankind and demeaning of the status of human beings.
World Toilet Day 2022 focuses on the impact of the sanitation crisis on groundwater. This observance, held annually since 2013, celebrates toilets and raises awareness of the 3.6 billion people living without access to safely managed sanitation. The campaign slogan for World Toilet Day 2022; “Making the Invisible Visible”.
The Coalition also urged pressure groups, youth movements, gender advocates, and other stakeholders to vigorously stand against open defecation, stressing that people not having access to proper means of toilet facilities has a related impact on human health as it increases pressures on the environment.
M-CODe however, commended social workers and various activists across the country who are striving to make basic human rights and needs access to remote regions and low-income populations.
The Coalition stressed that it may sound strange to celebrate Toilet Day but in actual fact, the occasion is to draw attention to the ills of society and ensure health and hygiene for all.
The statement explained that M-CODe would continue to monitor to ensure that existing policies and strategies related to the fight against open defecation are being implemented effectively; and promote the access to toilets through the provision of household and institutional toilet facilities.
The statement said M-CODe would also challenge institutions connected to the fight against open defecation to work harder through sustained publications and public discussions, and challenge non-performing regions and districts to be more aggressive in the fight against open defecation.
“M-CODe will intensify public sensitization against open defecation through community outreach programmes and other events, and celebrate open defecation-free communities and hard-working individuals and institutions in the fight against open defecation,” the statement stated.
