In the heart of West Africa, Ghana stands as a testament to the power of collective effort and dedication towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) - ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all. This commitment was recently showcased during a compelling side event co-hosted by Ghana and the University of Sussex at the 2023 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF).
A Global Commitment to Clean Water and Sanitation
SDG 6 is not just a goal; it's a promise to every individual on this planet to provide access to one of the most basic human needs - clean water. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of sanitation, a pivotal factor for global wellbeing. The event, held at the UN headquarters, brought together nations and experts, highlighting the urgent need for clean water and sanitation.
Ghana's Unwavering Dedication
Ambassador Harold Agyeman, Ghana's permanent representative to the United Nations in New York, emphasized the nation's unwavering dedication to achieving SDG 6. He showcased the holistic approach required for sustainable development, emphasizing the interconnectedness of SDG 6 with other global goals.
Data-Driven Approach for Informed Policy-Making
Chinnia Amidu Issahaku, Ghana's Deputy Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, shed light on the Ministry's efforts to enhance water quality across the service delivery chain. Leveraging data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census, which incorporated the WASH component, Ghana now has comprehensive insights into both urban and rural areas. This data-driven approach is a cornerstone for informed policy-making and decision processes.
The Role of Policy Coherence
Prof. Joseph Alcamo from the University of Sussex emphasized the paramount importance of policy coherence to synergize the diverse Sustainable Development Goals. His insights highlighted the need to minimize redundancy and inefficiencies while maximizing impact.
The Path Forward
George Gyan-Baffour, Head of Ghana's delegation and Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), infused the event with optimism. He emphasized the importance of forging strong partnerships to create resilient WASH systems, moving beyond conventional approaches to achieve lasting success.
In conclusion, Ghana's efforts towards achieving SDG 6 serve as an inspiration for nations worldwide. With collective effort, dedication, and a data-driven approach, the dream of universal access to clean water and sanitation can become a reality.
Source: GhanaWeb
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