WWD: Foto4change exhibition held on water crisis and climate change in Tamale

In commemoration of World Water Day (WWD), a photography exhibition aimed at raising awareness about water scarcity and climate change was held in Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region.

The event, organized by Foto4Change—a multimedia initiative dedicated to utilizing photography, video, and immersive storytelling to drive social impact—sought to educate the public on the current water crisis and the effects of climate change.

The exhibition showcased powerful images that highlight the importance of water conservation and the impacts of water scarcity in various communities across the region and the nation as a whole, urging a call to action for a sustainable future.

The event also aimed to present real-life stories about the conditions of water bodies and their effects on economic and domestic activities. Experts from the fields of water and sanitation, including representatives from Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Savannah Women Integrated Development Agency (SWIDA), NORSAC, Savana Opticals, WaterAid, ActionAid, UNICEF-Ghana, B&FT, and GJA, attended the event. They emphasized the need for sustainable action to tackle issues related to water, food security, and community empowerment. This approach is crucial for the nation to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2023 and become self-sufficient and independent, they stated.

Guests praised the team for their efforts and called for support to continue the initiative in the coming years to educate the public on pressing issues affecting citizens. Since this was the first event of its kind in the country, many emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector to establish it as an annual occurrence.

Water and sanitation expert Samuel Adjei highlighted, "Ghana Water Company may face infrastructure challenges, but the primary issue is the source of the water. I ask how many of us in Tamale ever consider where Ghana Water Company actually obtains the water that is treated and distributed to the populace here." He stressed the importance of raising awareness to discourage illegal activities at water bodies, which could help Ghana Water Company access quality and sufficient water for treatment and distribution.

Geoffrey Buta, the Team Lead of Foto4Change, expressed that visual storytelling is not just about capturing images; it is a powerful tool for advocacy, self-expression, and career development. By using photography, video, and immersive storytelling, the initiative aligns with SDG 5, which focuses on advocacy, education, and innovation while amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

According to Buta, the exhibition aimed to inform the public about the extent of the water crisis and its effects on climate change, stating, "The challenges with Tamale's water issues may come from various perspectives." He noted that he has spent the past eight years documenting water and climate-related issues. This particular event, coinciding with WWD, was an opportunity for people to understand the real situation on the ground, as many organizations often rely on statistics, policies, and meetings.

He added, "A photograph speaks louder than a thousand words," inviting the public to witness the reality of water issues to shift their mindset. "When discussing climate change, it's essential to see its effects so that they can start addressing it from their own perspectives."

Tama's water issues have persisted for nearly ten years, making this an urgent moment for residents struggling to access potable drinking water. Buta urged policymakers to prioritize addressing the ongoing water crisis in the region.