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Dr. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, the Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has called on Ghanaians to return to the strict handwashing habits adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at the national launch of the 2026 Global Handwashing Day, she emphasized that maintaining these hygiene practices is vital for combating a wide range of preventable diseases. The event serves as a reminder that simple actions, like washing hands with soap under running water, remain the most effective defense against many common infections.
During her address, Dr. Sowah highlighted the need for public institutions and local authorities to take more proactive roles in promoting hygiene. She urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to prioritize the provision and maintenance of handwashing facilities in schools and public restrooms. Furthermore, the Deputy Minister called for increased funding and more frequent inspections of these facilities by local assemblies to ensure they remain functional and consistently stocked with soap, which is essential for effective sanitation.
The call to action also extended to traditional leaders, who were encouraged to use their influence to champion hygiene within their respective communities. Dr. Sowah noted that community-led initiatives are crucial for sustaining a culture of cleanliness beyond institutional settings. The celebration of Global Handwashing Day on October 15 involves collaboration with international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, reflecting a global commitment to improving public health through better sanitation and hand hygiene awareness.