Sanitation Crisis: Only 59.3% of households have improved toilet facilities – Local Gov’t Ministry

Only 59.3 percent of households in Ghana have access to improved toilet facilities, with the government acknowledging that significant sanitation gaps remain across the country.

The figure was contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to commemorate the 2026 African Day for Decentralisation and Local Development.

The Ministry said the progress recorded in sanitation has not yet translated into adequate access for all households, particularly in communities facing challenges with toilet facilities, wastewater management and solid waste disposal.

The Ministry stressed that closing the sanitation gap will require stronger local institutions, greater community involvement and increased investment in sanitation infrastructure.

“Addressing these challenges requires stronger local institutions, enhanced community participation and increased investments in sanitation infrastructure and services across the country.”

The Ministry said Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) remain central to addressing the problem because of their responsibility for coordinating and delivering essential services within communities.

It further called for closer cooperation among MMDAs, water and sanitation agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, traditional authorities and religious institutions to improve services, particularly in underserved areas.

The Ministry also highlighted the role of traditional and religious leaders in mobilising communities, encouraging behavioural change and supporting initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and protecting the environment.

It said empowering local governments and strengthening partnerships would be essential to building more resilient and sustainable communities while advancing Ghana’s development objectives.