Project technical committee
A Collaborative Effort to Combat NTDs in the Municipality
Published on: 16/09/2024
This video highlights the critical efforts being made to address challenges related to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) through improved access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Upper Denkyira East. This initiative is crucial in tackling the major challenges faced by the municipality, particularly in providing access to WASH and combating NTDs.
Upper Denkyira East, which is endemic with NTDs, has long struggled with inadequate access to potable drinking water, especially in smaller communities. This lack of clean water worsens the prevalence of NTDs, affecting many residents. The Municipal Assembly has been working with the municipal health department and IRC Ghana to provide safe WASH services and to significantly reduce or eradicate these neglected tropical diseases.
"Water, sanitation, and hygiene play a vital role in healthcare. Ghana Health Services' policy on primary health care and universal health coverage highlights the disparities between rural and urban areas. In Upper Denkyira East, conditions like buruli ulcer, leprosy, and yaws are prevalent and identified as symptoms of extreme poverty," said the Upper Denkyira Municipal Health Director.
The WASH-NTDs Master Plan aims to address these issues by targeting NTD-affected communities and implementing sustainable solutions. The implementation of the plan began last year, and significant progress has been made in providing WASH facilities, community education, sensitization, and capacity-building support, among others.
Education is a key component of the project. School children and community members are being educated on hygiene practices through video sensitization programs. This initiative helps in the early identification and prompt treatment of NTDs, ensuring that communities are well-informed and proactive in maintaining their health.
The inclusion of WASH in the fight against NTDs has added immense value to the municipality's efforts. The project aims to enhance WASH service delivery within health facilities and communities, leading to a significant reduction in NTDs. The goal is to provide sustainable access to clean water and sanitation, improving the overall health and well-being of the residents.
"We are optimistic about the future as we continue to work with our partners to address these critical issues. The support from ANESVAD and other stakeholders is instrumental in eradicating NTDs and enhancing WASH services in Upper Denkyira East. Together, we can create a healthier and more sustainable environment for all," concluded the Chief Executive of Upper Denkyira East Municipal Assembly.
Find the full video here:
