Section of participants at the event
Reflections from the ANAM Initiative WASH Sustainability forum
Published on: 20/11/2024
The ANAM WASH Initiative has significantly enhanced water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services within the Asutifi North District. As the initiative continues to improve health, well-being, and community development, sustaining these achievements has become increasingly vital.
On September 11, 2024, a diverse group of stakeholders gathered for the WASH Sustainability Forum. Convened by the Asutifi North District Assembly in collaboration with IRC Ghana, the event brought together representatives from government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, and community groups. The forum, themed "Protecting the Gains of the ANAM WASH Initiative for the Future," provided a platform to reflect on progress, identify ongoing challenges, and collaboratively plan to sustain the gains.
Samuel Badu Baiden, the District Coordinating Director, speaking on behalf of the District Chief Executive, acknowledged the significant progress in expanding WASH infrastructure across the district and its transformative impact on local communities. He urged everyone to remain committed to the district's continued development, particularly in WASH.
Bismark Asante, the District Planning Officer, presented the gains made so far, indicating that the ANAM WASH Initiative has achieved 91% water coverage and 53% sanitation coverage. He highlighted success factors such as decisive leadership, regular monitoring, and community ownership. However, securing consistent funding and changing long-standing attitudes remain challenges.
Nana Anim Dankwah, the Saamanhene of the Kenyasi No.1 traditional area highlighted the unwavering commitment of traditional authorities (Nananom) to the sustainability of the ANAM WASH programme. He emphasised the crucial role of traditional leadership in supporting community initiatives and pledged continued cooperation in safeguarding the initiative's achievements.
Vida Duti, IRC Ghana Country Director, reflected on how the district-based initiative has grown into a regional programme and the importance of sustainability to protect the progress made. She said, "the true measure of success lies in the sustainability of the programme, and we aim to develop a plan with the district assembly to address the issues identified and ensure sustainable services for all."
Patience Ampomah, a Senior Planning Analyst at the National Development Planning Commission, pledged the commitment of the commission to deepen the integration of WASH into the district's medium-term development plans and the development of WASH masterplans in other districts using the ANAM Initiative as a model. She called for practical steps to sustain the gains of the initiative.
Group discussions reviewed progress, identified sustainability challenges, and shared best practices. Issues included infrastructure quality, operation and maintenance, community conflicts, and theft. Recommendations included creating bylaws, improving security, and fostering collaboration and partnerships to maintain and expand the initiative's impact. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, the forum aimed to lay the foundation for periodic collective reviews to ensure a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable system that empowers communities and delivers lasting services.
The WASH Sustainability Forum reinforced the importance of collective efforts in ensuring the long-term success of the ANAM WASH Initiative. Through insightful discussions on governance, funding, and the roles of key actors, participants highlighted the progress made and the challenges that still need to be addressed. The commitment of local governments, development partners, and communities to work together in safeguarding the gains made in WASH services delivery is clear. Moving forward, maintaining strong leadership, accountability, and collaboration will be central in sustaining and expanding the impact of this initiative for the benefit of future generations.
About the ANAM Initiative
The Asutifi North District is committed to ensuring that every resident has access to sustainable safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services by 2030 through the Asutifi North Ahonidie Mpontuo (ANAM) Initiative. This initiative is driven by strong leadership from the District Assembly, traditional authorities, and partners like IRC WASH.
The comprehensive approach aims to significantly improve the quality of life for residents by focusing on reliable access to WASH services, sustainable management, and improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Significant milestones have already been achieved, including the construction of over 226 boreholes, establishment of mechanised water schemes, and provision of WASH facilities in schools and healthcare centres. The initiative also emphasises community engagement through the ANAM WASH Desk, which collects feedback and conducts outreach campaigns. Water quality is a top priority, with monthly testing, an Assurance Fund, and regular discussions with communities to ensure safety and transparency.
The ANAM Initiative's success is further supported by partner services that offer capacity building and technical support for local WASH providers. By prioritising water quality, effective communication, and community engagement, the initiative is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for all residents in the Asutifi North District. With continued dedication and collaborative support, the district is well on its way to achieving its ambitious WASH goals by 2030.
