[September 12, 2011] Lack of Water 'Forces' Open Defaecation - Watsan Journalists Tweet Sep 12, 2011 (Public Agenda/All Africa Global Media via COMTEX) -- Ghanaians, who openly defaecate, partly do so because they are unable to access water, according to a report released by the Ghana Water and Sanitation Journalists Network (GWJN). "Walking distances to fetch water was negatively impacting on productivity, schooling and even sanitation. And those who are unable to get water prefer to defaecate in the open because they cannot find any other means," Mr Peter Serinye, Coordinator of the Network, said. The report is the result of a survey undertaken by the Network during the celebration of World Water Day in March, 2011. The report, titled "Water for Cities: Responding to the Urban Challenge", was launched in Accra on Thursday together with the Network's website - www.gwjn.org. Giving highlights of the report in a welcome address, Mr Serinye said the Network formed teams to undertake the survey in various parts of Accra. "We went round town, found some interesting things...Generally the teams found that the supply of safe water through taps was inconsistent and unreliable. In many instances, taps did not flow at all, while others had no connections to their homes, even though their communities were near treatment plants and abundant water sources. "As a result, communities were forced to depend on other sources of water such as wells, tankers and retailers. For instance, in the Sakumono Village of over 5,000 members, access to water, especially for the people at the upper end of the settlement, is a problem. "The teams also found that water retail activities were common and without these retailers some people found it very difficult to live their lives normally. Consequently, the Network has recommended, among others, that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) should collaborate with organisations and individuals who have taken the initiative to construct water systems for supply to others, so the citizenry are not unduly exploited. In addition, "The Ghana Water Company Limited should expand its infrastructure and streamline its water delivery mechanisms to ensure supply of adequate amounts of water to urban households, especially those whose homes are already connected." Launching the website and the report, Hon Alban Bagbin, Minister for Water Resources, Works and Housing, commended the group for the initiative and assured members of the willingness of the Ministry to take their suggestions on board. He also pledged government's commitment and readiness to work together with the group to enhance advocacy for and development of the water sector. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]