The Relevance of Social and Behaviour Change Communication in Sanitation and Solid Waste Management in Techiman South, Ghana

This study investigates Social and Behaviour Change Communication as a relevant enabler in managing sanitation and solid waste in the Techiman South District. Sanitation and solid waste management pose considerable challenges, impacting various aspects of life. While there is extensive research and interventions to help address this menace, little success is chalked as people in urban and peri-urban areas continue to engage in acts that complicate the matter. The study employed a mixed-method approach. Data were collected through survey questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and observation. Purposive sampling and simple random sampling techniques were used to select participants. The findings showed that community mobilisation efforts in waste management are inadequate, primarily due to weak community participation in such efforts. Weak communication programmes within sanitation and waste management policies further exacerbate this issue, underscoring the need for enhanced community participation. The study concludes that there is a gap in communication and awareness efforts in the study area. It is recommendedthat duty-bearers in the district prioritise community mobilisation and participation efforts, such as regular clean-up exercises, and involve community leaders in planning and dissemination of information on sanitation and solid waste management in the Techiman South District.