WaterAid Ghana has stressed the need for women’s involvement and active participation in managing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities within their communities. In addressing the persistent challenge of sustaining WASH facilities, the organisation identified effective WASH governance as essential for ensuring their long-term viability. Madam Fauzia Aliu, Policy, Campaigns, and Inclusion Manager for WaterAid Ghana, said despite the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) recommending at least 60 per cent female membership on Water and Sanitation Management Teams (WSMTs), women’s voices often remained unheard.
Speaking in Jirapa during a leadership training session for WSMT members from Gbare, Ul-Dantie, and Sabulli communities, she underscored the need for inclusive leadership of the WSMT. The training, a collaborative initiative between WaterAid Ghana and Diageo is aimed to empower WSMTs to effectively manage solar-powered mechanised water systems in their communities. It included leadership skills and practical exercises to address and overcome gender norms and stereotypes that hindered women’s active participation.
Madam Aliu noted the ineffectiveness of the current WSMTs and the poor condition of facilities, emphasising the necessity of incorporating women’s perspectives in WASH management. “Bringing the silent voices of those affected by dysfunctional facilities, particularly women, into the decision-making process is crucial,” she stated. Mad.
