Regional Minister, DCE lead community members in sanitation exercise in Kandiga

Hon. Donatus Akamugri: Clean communities key to boosting productivity and reducing disease burden — DCE promises modern toilets for Kandiga, Sirigu and Chiana markets

The Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugri Atanga, together with the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Kasena Nankana West, Hon. Stephen Aeke Akurugu, and senior staff of the Assembly, on 5th September 2026 joined residents of Kandiga to participate in the National Sanitation Exercise held in the community.

Speaking to the media after the exercise, the Regional Minister described the initiative as a practical and effective approach to addressing the sanitation challenges confronting communities in the region. “This sanitation initiative is a clear solution to tackle the sanitation menace in our communities,” Hon. Atanga said.

Clean Environment Linked to Productivity

The Regional Minister explained that improved sanitation goes beyond hygiene, noting its direct impact on workforce productivity and the wellbeing of residents. “When people are healthy enough to work and attend to their offices, productivity increases. On the other hand, when people are sick and cannot go to work, productivity declines. So the idea is to find a lasting solution to ailments and diseases caused by poor sanitation, such as malaria, typhoid and others,” he stated.

DCE Responds to Chief’s Appeal for Toilet Facilities

Responding to an appeal by the Paramount Chief of the Kandiga Traditional Area, Naaba Henry Abawine Amenga‑Etega II, for the provision of toilet facilities, the DCE disclosed that plans are already underway to construct modern toilet facilities at the Kandiga, Sirigu and Chiana markets. “Plans are in the pipeline to ensure that Kandiga market, Sirigu market and Chiana market all get modern toilet facilities. Probably next week, the contractor will move to site to begin work at the Kandiga market,” Hon. Akurugu said.

Youth, Livestock Dealers Push for Abattoir

The DCE further revealed that youth groups and livestock dealers in the area have separately requested the construction of an abattoir to support their trade. He noted that the Assembly has directed them to formally submit their request in writing for consideration. “The youth and livestock dealers in the area also requested an abattoir, and I have asked them to put it into an official request so the Assembly can take a decision on it,” he added.

Residents Commend Mahama Government Over Sanitation Initiative

Some residents of Kandiga who spoke to the media commended the NDC government for what they described as a timely intervention in addressing sanitation challenges in their markets and communities.

They expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for the initiative, noting that it has begun to address long‑standing sanitation concerns in the area.