UNICEF initiates sanitation project in Central Region

Cape Coast, July 23, GNA - Water and sanitation expert, has called for proper disposal of human waste, refuse and other hygienic practices to prevent deaths of children under five. Mr. Michael Forson, Water/Sanitation Specialist at the Accra office of UNICEF, noted that most childhood deaths were caused by unhealthy and insanitary practices.

He expressed worry that most households do not have latrines and improper disposal of human waste resulted in pollution of water and food.

Mr. Forson was interacting with media personnel after the launch of UNICEF's Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), project that was aimed at promoting hygienic practices among the people in the Central Region, at Cape Coast.

It would be implemented in the Gomoa East, Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, Asikuma-Odoben-Brakwa, Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam and Assin South districts. The project will ensue capacity building and training of stakeholders and promote behavioural change regarding washing of hands with soap and proper ways of storing water. Mr. Forson asked the assemblies of the beneficiary districts to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the success of the project. Madam Ama Benyiwa-Doe, Regional Minister, said government spent large sums of money on diseases that were caused by lack of potable water, poor sanitation and unhygienic practices. She said water borne diseases could account for deaths among children under five. 23 July 09