Water quality remains a critical public health concern in Asutifi North District. In October 2024, the Aquaya Institute, with funding from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation as part of the ANAM Initiative, conducted chemical and heavy metal testing on drinking water from 50 water points serving schools and healthcare facilities. This initiative was part of the WaterTRACS (Testing, Research, and Capacity Strengthening) program, which aims to improve water safety and inform policy decisions.
To share the findings and engagekey stakeholders, the Asutifi North District Assembly hosted a results dissemination meeting on February 3, 2025. The meeting brought together district officials, Nananom, WASH sector partners, education and health directors, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the outcomes of the study and its implications for water safety in the district.
"Optimizing the value ofwater quality data remains challenging, particularly for small town water
supply systems and as such very important in shaping policies and interventions
to ensure clean and safe water for all."
Following the presentation,community leaders and stakeholders engaged in discussions on the way forward. Nana Saanahene, speaking on behalf of the local leadership, reinforced the need
for immediate action:
"Access to clean water isnot a privilege but a necessity. We must continue to work together with government, researchers, and the community to safeguard our water sources and ensure a healthier future."
To address the identified concerns, key recommendations include:
Constructing new water infrastructure using certified lead-free materials.
- Implementing routine lead monitoring in drinking water sources.
- Raising awareness about lead contamination risks and promoting alternative safe water sources.
- Exploring low-cost and effective lead removal methods.
- Prioritizing microbial surveillance, as microbial contamination remains the greatest health risk.
Following the dissemination meeting, it was announced that a water quality data collection exercise commenced on February 3 and will continue until February 15, 2025. This exercise covers selected schools, healthcare facilities, and communities in Asutifi North District. The findings from this ongoing research will contribute to shaping policies and interventions aimed at improving access to safe drinking water in the district.
For more information on theWaterTRACS program, visit www.aquaya.org