An overview of the community led total sanitation approach in some selected communities in the Central Region

Abstract

This study was to assess the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach to sanitation delivery in selected communities in the Central region.One hundred and forty–five householders were randomly selected from four communities. Interview guides, interview schedules and observational checklists were used to obtain the data from respondents. Frequencies, percentages, tables and cross-tabulations were used to analyse the data. The study revealed that the practice of open defecation was eradicated after CLTS implementation and community members adopted improved household latrines. Again, the findings showed the triggering of community members was handled mainly by Local NGOs with the support of Plan Ghana and Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA).The study identified a number of institution involved in CLTS implementation such as CWSA, Plan Ghana, Water and SanitationCommittee Members (WATSANs) and District Water and Sanitation Teams (DWSTs). Findings revealed that these institutions knew exactly what their roles were and roles of their partner institutions. However, the study revealed some major institutional challenges including inadequate funds for CLTS monitoring and WATSAN activities, inadequate logistical support for the WATSANs and the DWSTs, limited number of staff and capacity at the district level among others.It is recommended that the banks must assist community members through micro-credits for latrine construction;WATSANs given adequate financial motivation; adequate funds provided by the district for follow-up activities etc.