Open urination remains a persistent and visible blight on Ghana’s urban and rural landscapes. Despite the proliferation of “Do Not Urinate Here” signs on countless walls across cities, towns, and villages, the practice continues unabated, reflecting deeper systemic failures. The root of the problem is not a lack of awareness, but rather a chronic inaccessibility to clean, functional, and open public washrooms.
Locked or poorly maintained public toilets force citizens—men, women, and children alike—to relieve themselves in open drains, bushes, or against walls, often in full view of the public. This is not merely an issue of convenience or aesthetics; it is a profound public health crisis. Open urination contributes to the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid, contaminates water sources, and degrades the environment. The situation is exacerbated for vulnerable populations, including those with health conditions that require frequent urination, for whom inaccessible facilities pose serious health risks.
The responsibility for providing accessible sanitation facilities lies squarely with local authorities, yet many Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) have failed to prioritize or properly manage this basic public service. Enforcement of sanitation by-laws, while necessary, is not a substitute for infrastructure; punitive measures alone cannot solve a problem rooted in systemic neglect.
Ghana’s Constitution enshrines the dignity of all persons, and international human rights norms reinforce access to sanitation as a fundamental right. Locking away public washrooms or failing to provide them at all is a violation of this dignity and a dereliction of state duty.
The solution is clear: unlock and maintain public washrooms, implement sustainable funding models such as nominal user fees, and ensure continuous oversight and maintenance. Community involvement and public-private partnerships can further enhance both accessibility and sustainability. The cost of inaction—measured in healthcare expenses, lost productivity, environmental degradation, and eroded national pride—far outweighs the investment required.
It is time for Ghana to move beyond excuses and take decisive action. Open urination is not just a nuisance; it is a symptom of a nation failing to meet the most basic needs of its people. Unlocking the doors to dignity is not just possible—it is imperative for a healthier, cleaner, and more just Ghana.