Awal’s journey began in 2023. As a small plumbing business owner, he had long harbored the desire to do something bigger for his community. When the Digni-Loo initiative arrived through En-WASH, he seized the opportunity.

“I wanted to be part of a solution that addresses a critical need,” he says. “Sanitation has always been a challenge here, and I knew improving it could change lives.”

The road was not easy, however, as skepticism ran deep in the community and people viewed the Digni-Loo as just another expensive project with no lasting benefit. Awal’s initial efforts to promote the sanitation solution were met with resistance.

“People didn’t trust it,” he recalls. “They thought it wouldn’t last, or it was too costly.”

Undeterred, Awal took a grassroots approach. He leveraged his existing relationships to build trust, educate residents on the long-term health benefits of the Digni-Loo and dispel fears about cost. He organized community meetings, consulted local leaders and conducted house-to-house visits to demonstrate the product firsthand. To break down financial barriers, Awal offered flexible payment plans, allowing more families to afford the Digni-Loo.

His persistence paid off. Over the past year, Awal has helped install more than 30 Digni-Loos and resilient latrines in Sagnarigu and neighboring areas. As a result, there has been a significant reduction in waterborne diseases and a noticeable improvement in overall community health.

What’s more, Awal’s work is inspiring a new generation of sanitation advocates. He now leads a team of five young men, whom he mentors in entrepreneurship and public health.

“Seeing the ripple effect of what I’ve started is incredibly rewarding,” he says.

Yet, Awal’s ambitions stretch far beyond the successes of today. He envisions expanding his work to more remote areas and introducing complementary products to further improve sanitation and hygiene.

“My dream is to see every household in Sagnarigu equipped with a Digni-Loo,” he says. “I believe it’s possible with continued effort and community support.”

Awal’s story highlights how local entrepreneurs can drive lasting change in their communities, overcoming obstacles through persistence and ingenuity. His work underscores the importance of grassroots engagement, innovative financing and a relentless commitment to public health.

“When you’re passionate about a cause and committed to making a difference, nothing is impossible,” Awal says. “Together, we can build healthier, more resilient communities.”

The impact of such efforts is evident in the achievements of the USAID-funded En-WASH Activity, which began in October 2021 and will continue through September 2026. Through this initiative, 16,217 latrines have been constructed, providing 155,037 people access to basic sanitation services. Additionally, 317 communities have attained Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, demonstrating the transformative power of collaboration and local leadership in improving health and sanitation outcomes.

This success story is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Global Communities and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

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Speaking at the event, Alberto Wilde, Country Director of Global Communities Ghana, expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the project a reality.

“My heartfelt gratitude to our implementing partners – Saha Global, Afram Plains Development Organization and Water4 – for their unwavering dedication and contributions towards the construction of these vital water systems. Your commitment to our shared mission has been instrumental in making today’s achievement possible,” he said. “These water systems represent more than just infrastructure; they signify hope, progress and a better quality of life for the residents of Nawuhugu and Nanton Kurugu.”

The Nawuhugu Water Supply System will benefit a total of 14,314 people across six communities, including two Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and two schools. A similar water system was commissioned in Nanton-Kurugu as well. Both systems consist of two boreholes and a 100 cubic-meter reinforced concrete tank installed at 12-meters high. The boreholes are equipped with submersible pumps, which are solar-powered. USAID funded the water systems and partnered with Global Communities to facilitate the construction. The project began in February 2023 and ended in March 2024.

“Imagine a world where every household has access to clean drinking water, farmers can irrigate their fields without worrying about water shortages, and small businesses can operate with sufficient water supply,” said USAID/Ghana Mission Director Kimberly Rosen, whose presence at the ceremony underscored the importance of the project in the eyes of the international community. “… The two water systems we are inaugurating today are part of those efforts.”

As the project continues to serve as a beacon of hope for other communities facing similar challenges, it highlights the transformative power of collective action in creating lasting change. Ghana’s Northern Regional Minister, Honorable Shani Alhassan Shaibu, took a moment to laud Global Communities’ WASH related interventions in the region.

“I wish to, on behalf of the government, the chiefs and people of the region and the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, express our sincerest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to USAID, Global Communities and all WASH implementing partners for this laudable initiative and the several developmental projects doted around the region, all towards improving access to basic necessities such as water to improve the livelihood of our people,” he said.

For residents of Nawuhugu and Nanton Kurugu, the commissioning of the water systems represents more than just infrastructure; it signifies the dawn of a new era — one characterized by improved health, dignity and prosperity. Combined, the systems will serve over 20,000 residents in nine communities.

To learn more about the commissioning ceremony and our partners under the USAID-funded En-WASH Activity, please check out the press release issued by the U.S. Embassy in Ghana on April 19, 2024.

This success story is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Global Communities and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

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A solar-powered mechanized water system was introduced there as part of the USAID-funded WASH for Health program, making daily life better and more manageable for more than 4,780 people.

“We no longer trek for hours in search of water,” said Barikisu, a proud native of Mandari. “It’s right here, within our reach. This project is a blessing, a game-changer.”

Access to clean water was a longstanding issue in Mandari, and the burden often fell on the shoulders of women like Barikisu, who would spend the bulk of each day fetching water from distant sources. This meant less time for family, less time for personal growth and less time for community development.

Since the introduction of the mechanized water system, however, Barikisu’s routine has been able to shift focus.

“I can spend more time with my children, and they can attend school regularly,” she said. “I’ve even started a small farm, growing vegetables to support my family. This water project has opened doors of opportunity for us.”

With an impressive storage capacity of 100,000 liters, the mechanized water system operates under the stewardship of the community Water and Sanitation Management Team, ensuring reliability and sustainability as a primary water source for the entire community. The water is efficiently delivered through an extensive network of 8,450 meters of distribution lines, seamlessly connecting households, healthcare facilities and schools.

“We are healthier now. Waterborne diseases have significantly reduced, and our children are thriving,” said Barikisu, speaking to the impact the new system has had on the overall well-being of the community. “We no longer live in fear of sickness caused by contaminated water.”

Beyond Mandari, Global Communities has continued its WASH work by installing similar systems in the Gushegu and Nanton Kurugu communities in northern Ghana. These initiatives mark a significant expansion of access to clean water and sanitation facilities, furthering the organization’s commitment to improving the quality of life in underserved regions.

This success story is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Global Communities and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

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The event was held on Feb. 29, at the Volta Lake Transport Company in Akosombo, and marked the fruition of collaborative efforts aimed at addressing long-standing healthcare challenges.

“As we commission this boat today, let it sail not just through the waters but into the hearts and homes of the people it serves,” remarked Alberto Wilde, Country Director, Global Communities Ghana. “May it symbolize the ripple effect of positive change, reaching far beyond its physical presence.”

For years, the Ghana Health Service has grappled with the formidable challenge of delivering healthcare to communities scattered across the islands of the Volta Lake in the Oti region. Navigating the vast lake posed insurmountable obstacles, resulting in insufficient healthcare access for these remote communities.

Addressing this critical issue, USAID’s support enabled Global Communities to acquire a 20-foot boat specifically designed to navigate the waters of the Volta Lake. This innovative solution represents a groundbreaking leap in healthcare accessibility for communities such as Tokpo, Dentemanso, Yaben, Kotokoli, Tekperkope, Obimpeh, and neighboring areas in the Krachi East and Krachi West districts of the Oti region.

The Health Voyager, a marvel of maritime engineering, is a round bilge boat with spray rails, meticulously crafted to ensure optimal performance and safety in challenging environments. Fashioned from reinforced fiberglass, it boasts dimensions of 20 feet in length, 6.5 feet in width, and a depth of 3.08 feet. With comfortable seating for 20 adults, the boat’s interior includes a storage cabin, a tool compartment, and a washroom or change room for passenger convenience.

The commissioning and handover ceremony unfolded with the arrival and warm welcome of the USAID delegation, Global Communities and esteemed health officials. Key representatives shared insights into the background and community overviews, emphasizing the challenges faced by island communities and the impact of USAID’s support. Representatives highlighted the pivotal role of the Health Voyager in transforming healthcare accessibility.

Formal transfer of the boat to the Ghana Health Service was accompanied by the symbolic handover of four vehicles and 30 motorcycles. Expressions of gratitude echoed from USAID and Global Communities, underlining the collaborative spirit behind this healthcare milestone. The event concluded with a boat tour and demonstration that allowed guests to witness firsthand the key features and functionalities of the Health Voyager.

“The Health Voyager signifies a monumental advancement in healthcare for the Oti region, ensuring no community is left behind,” affirmed Dr. Patrick Kumah Aboagye, Director General of Ghana Health Service.

In summary, the Health Voyager commissioning and handover ceremony symbolized a collaborative effort to overcome healthcare challenges and usher in a new era of inclusivity for communities previously hindered by geographical barriers. The new vessel stands as a testament to progress and inclusivity, ensuring that essential healthcare services reach even the most remote corners of the Oti region.

This success story is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Global Communities and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

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Have you ever used a bathroom stall without a lock? How about dark public facilities while toileting? How did these experiences make you feel?

There are few moments when we feel as vulnerable as when we are attending to our biological needs. All people need toilets and privacy, but women and girls experience increased vulnerability because of menstruation and risks of gender-based violence (GBV).

In contexts as varied as India, Vietnam, Kenya and Ghana, large numbers of women cite the lack of household sanitation and on-site water sources as heightening their fear of sexual violence. This fear is not unfounded. Studies show that in some settings, GBV risks more than double when women and girls do not have safe toilets in their homes. These pervasive risks, anxiety and trauma take a toll on their health and quality of life, limiting their full potential. Needless to say, they are exacerbated in humanitarian settings.

Two billion people worldwide lack access to basic sanitation, and half of them are women and girls. Using unlit and unsafe public facilities, or resorting to open defecation, is dangerous. Lack of sanitation kills.

How are we doing?

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) explicitly recognized the universal human right to water and sanitation on July 28, 2010. Five years later, the UNGA singled out sanitation as a distinct human right, separate from the right to water. The Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) calls for “ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.” Although there is overall progress in SDG 6, rural sanitation coverage has declined by some measures.

In 2018, the UN declared the period of 2018 to 2028 the “International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development,” leaving many to ask, “What about sanitation?” Sanitation affects not only our health, but also our dignity and quality of life. On World Toilet Day 2023, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) made a sweeping statement that public health leaders have been making for a decade: “Toilets are a foundation stone of public health and play a critical role in protecting the environment.”

Despite these declarations, funding for sanitation consistently lags behind funding for water. We proclaim, “Water is Life,” while forgetting that unsafe sanitation exposes women and girls to the risks of violence and death. To accomplish SDG 6, the world must work, on average, five times faster to meet the sanitation target of SDG 6 – safe toilets and water for all by 2030.

Expanding the message and the impact

For decades, the global campaign for sanitation has focused on children. The clarion call against open defecation has highlighted the negative impacts of unsafe sanitation on the health of children under five. Many are familiar with the devastating statistic that more than 1,000 children under five  die each day from the lack of adequate water, sanitation and hygiene services.

Toilets are a foundation stone of public health and play a critical role in protecting the environment.

UNICEF, 2023

The thought of children dying of entirely preventable diseases has kept advocates, officials and frontline workers tirelessly motivated in the life-and-death battle for improved sanitation. Significant progress has been made in reducing childhood deaths associated with the lack of access to water and sanitation services. Women and girls, however, and those who care about their safety, are raising their voices: “Don’t forget about the negative impacts of unsafe and undignified sanitation on half of the world’s population!” Concerns about the impact on children under five should continue to motivate us, but we cannot ignore a growing body of compelling evidence that the lack of sanitation is hurting women and girls at a disproportionate rate.

An urgent need for a toilet is an uncomfortable situation, but it should not be a dangerous one. The normal, daily need that all people experience should not cause anxiety and lead, all too often, to violence.

What can I do?

So now that you care about sanitation, not only as a children’s health issue but also a women’s rights issue, what can you do to effect change?

• See something, say something! When you see a problem, bring it to the attention of others. If a public toilet is in a poor condition or lacks basic amenities, such as good lighting and sturdy door locks, don’t just walk away in disgust. Demand better services for all. It’s a right, not a luxury. Tell business owners that you cannot patronize their businesses unless they provide safe and dignified sanitation. Tell the administrators of public facilities and schools that you demand better services. Stop tolerating poor quality sanitation. Speak up!

• Demand equal funding for water and sanitation! We do not need less attention to water scarcity, which also disproportionately affects women and girls. We need equal attention to safe and dignified sanitation. Globally, more people lack sanitation than safe water, yet funding for water continues to outpace funding for sanitation, resulting in slow progress. According to the World Health Organization, while 45% of countries are on track to achieve their drinking-water coverage targets, only 25% of countries are on track to achieve their sanitation targets. The UN World Toilet Day falls every year on November 19th, and it has been around since 2013. When was the last time you went to a World Toilet Day rally?

• Not just for you! If you do not feel like this issue affects you directly, think about how it affects the women and girls in your life and community. Whether you live in a bustling city with too few safe and clean public toilets, or in a household where “this is just the way it has always been,” advocate for those who suffer most from the lack of safe and dignified sanitation.

• All are welcome! Do not forget about people who are marginalized socially or physically. The facilities in places you frequent may be adequate for your needs, but what about the needs of those who need special accommodations, for example more space, facilities they can easily reach and use, spaces for children and babies, and spaces for those who may be made to feel unwelcome? No person should feel that a public facility does not meet their needs, and their right, to safe, dignified sanitation.

The need for a toilet should never be a life-and-death dilemma. Safe toilets for safe communities!

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The Ghana Enhancing Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (EN-WASH) Activity aims to increase the use of sustainable, equitable, quality and district-wide WASH services in communities and health care facilities. Funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Global Communities, EN-WASH also addresses the adoption of sustainable WASH practices in households, communities and health care facilities to increase access to basic sanitation and drinking water services. As part of EN-WASH, an innovative pilot project is being introduced to lower costs and construction time for latrine structures.

In partnership with SKYFOX Limited, Global Communities developed a durable and affordable interlocking soil-cement block to help build household latrine structures for communities involved in EN-WASH projects. Since the blocks are relatively cheap, easy to build and meet masonry standards, the innovation promotes faster and more affordable latrine construction, which will help EN-WASH achieve its continued goal of facilitating community-led total sanitation.

After conducting a pilot build of 250 latrine structures, the EN-WASH team found that, on average, 400 interlocking soil-cement blocks are needed to complete one latrine structure for a household Digni-Loo model. After the interlocking soil-cement blocks are cast, it takes 14 days for them to be ready for use and five hours to complete overall construction. No mortar is needed to bind the blocks together, thus contributing to the shorter build time.

“This innovation provides a more durable, safer and resilient latrine structure to the people of the rural part of Ghana and also creates employment for youth in the communities involved, giving them an opportunity to have their own business,” said Alberto Wilde, Chief of Party for EN-WASH and Country Director for Global Communities Ghana. “Cost reduction in construction also has a positive impact by providing more affordable access to improved sanitation.”

The interlocking soil-cement blocks developed by Global Communities and SKYFOX Limited are impactful in multiple ways. For one, this type of soil block performs better in compressive strength compared to the conventional sancrete (sand/cement) block. The interlocking soil-cement block contains less than 10% cement, while sancrete usually contains 15% or higher. This is a significant cost savings since cement is expensive in rural communities.

Cost of production for the interlocking soil-cement block is roughly 5 cents or .675 Ghana cedis (GHC), while a sancrete block costs 19 cents or 2.56 GHC. These numbers do not factor in the additional cost of transportation, water, cement, sand and labor associated with creating sancrete.

It’s also worth noting that a manually operated, hand-pressed machine is used to construct interlocking soil-cement blocks. The machine produces two blocks at a time and has a design production rate of 1,000 interlocking soil-cement blocks per day. Perhaps more importantly, the machine is mobile and does not require any electricity or maintenance aside from regular cleaning. This means that brickmakers can be employed from within program communities and can move the machine to cast interlocking soil-cement blocks directly on the proposed sites of new latrine structures, reducing the cost of transportation.

While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily paused the project, the EN-WASH team has begun to reinvest their efforts into expanding use of the innovation among all participating program communities in 30 districts across the Northern Regions of Ghana.

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Through the Enhancing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program, USAID Ghana is helping to increase access to sustainable and affordable sanitation in six regions of Northern Ghana by addressing the barriers for a poor-inclusive rural sanitation market. 

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