The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, called for intensified efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
“SDG 6 is not just a target—it is a critical pillar that supports the entire framework of sustainable development,” he stated. “Its successful implementation directly influences other SDGs, including health, education, and economic opportunities.
When we achieve SDG 6, we lay the foundation for progress across multiple dimensions, creating a ripple effect that improves the quality of life for individuals and communities alike.”
The Minister was speaking at the opening ceremony of the 35th annual Mole Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Conference, held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho.
Organized by the Coalition of Non-Governmental Organizations in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) with support from WaterAid Ghana, World Vision Ghana, Plan International Ghana, UNICEF, the World Bank, Global Communities, the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, and the World Bank-funded GAMA SWP project, this year’s conference centers on the theme, “Looking Back on SDG Six Implementation in Ghana: Progress, Challenges, and the Way Forward.”
Dr. Letsa highlighted the importance of SDG 6 as a cornerstone for broader development goals, impacting key areas such as health, education, and economic growth.
Progress in the Volta Region
The Minister emphasized the significant progress made in the Volta Region towards improving water access and sanitation, citing successful initiatives like community water supply projects and sanitation campaigns.
He lauded the work of local stakeholders, particularly the Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) and the Regional Environmental Health Officer, for their pivotal roles in these efforts.
He also noted key projects, such as the Dundee Water Project, which provided water to previously underserved communities, and the Five District Water Project, which brought much-needed water to the people of Adaklu.
However, he stressed the importance of completing ongoing projects and urged officials to expedite the fourth phase of the water initiative to ensure all communities benefit.
“We have effectively addressed water challenges in many of our districts, but there is still much more to be done,” Letsa said. “Many communities have reported increased access to safe drinking water, but challenges remain, and we must continue working to reduce waterborne diseases and improve sanitation.”
Call for Greater Collaboration
The Minister called for stronger partnerships between the government, civil society, the private sector, and international partners to accelerate progress on SDG 6.
He encouraged all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue during the conference, sharing successes and learning from challenges.
“As we work towards a sustainable future, it is crucial that all sectors of society participate actively in this effort. Together, we can overcome our challenges and ensure that clean water and sanitation are accessible to all,” he added.
The Mole WASH Conference, organized by CONIWAS, serves as a platform for reviewing sector performance, influencing policy, and promoting sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene services across Ghana.
Supported by stakeholders such as WaterAid Ghana, World Vision Ghana, UNICEF, and the World Bank, and with the Ghana Water Journalists Network (GWJN) as a media partner, the conference continues to shape the nation’s approach to WASH issues.
