Collective action needed to end open defecation — M-CODe

The Media Coalition Against Open Defecation (M-CODe) has issued a rallying cry to stakeholders, policymakers, and the general public to join forces in the fight against open defecation.

Mr Francis Ameyibor, M-CODe National Convenor, in a statement, noted that ending open defecation requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government, traditional leaders, community members, and the media.

"We cannot afford to wait any longer. Open defecation is a ticking time bomb that threatens our national health, economy, and dignity. We urge all stakeholders to join us in this fight to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to safe and dignified sanitation facilities," Mr Ameyibor stated.

The coalition is also calling for increased investment in sanitation infrastructure, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where the need is greatest.

Additionally, M-CODe is advocating for strengthened policies and laws to support sanitation and hygiene, as well as increased public awareness and education campaigns to promote behaviour change.

Mr. Ameyibor noted that the media, in particular, has a critical role to play in amplifying the issue and holding duty-bearers accountable.

"We must use our platforms to shine a light on the realities of open defecation and to demand action from our leaders," Mr Ameyibor stated.

As Ghana works towards achieving the SDGs, the Media Coalition Against Open Defecation remains committed to pushing for collective action to end open defecation.

This call to action comes as Ghana struggles to meet its targets under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6, which aims to ensure access to sanitation and hygiene for all.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), open defecation is a major public health concern, with over 2.3 billion people worldwide lacking access to basic sanitation facilities.

In Ghana, the situation is dire, with an estimated 4.2 million people practicing open defecation, leading to the spread of diseases like cholera, diarrhoea, and typhoid fever.

The M-CODe, comprising media practitioners, civil society organizations, and development partners, has been at the forefront of advocating for improved sanitation and hygiene practices in Ghana.

Mr. Ameyibor also commended World Vision Ghana and Kingshall Media for their relentless support for the advocacy work of the coalition and appealed to other stakeholders to support M-CODe to upscale its advocacy against open defecation.