Invest more in WASH systems to facilitate universal hand hygiene — CARO Ghana to Government

Universal hand hygiene—so that everyone can wash hands with soap at critical times—depends on water, soap and behaviour change. In many parts of Ghana, especially in rural and underserved areas, WASH systems remain under-resourced. CaroGhana has called on government and development partners to invest more in these systems so that hand hygiene can become a reality for all.

Stronger WASH systems mean reliable water supply, appropriate facilities in homes, schools and health facilities, and sustained behaviour change communication. When these are in place, the gains in health, dignity and productivity are substantial. Our experience from Community-Led Total Sanitation and hand hygiene promotion shows that communities are ready to adopt better practices when the enabling environment exists.

We will continue to advocate for increased investment in WASH at local and national levels and to work with communities and partners to demonstrate what is possible when hand hygiene is prioritised.