Challenges of water and sanitation facilities for children in households in Ghana

ABSTRACT Water and sanitation are essential pillars of health and well-being. This study examined children's access to drinking water supplies and the challenges they face due to inadequate water facilities at home, as well as the difficulties they encounter due to insufficient household toilet facilities. This study utilized mixed-method secondary data from the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The study found that boreholes (39.8%) and pipe water (39.1%) were the primary sources of drinking water for children. Inadequate water access at home led to poor hygiene, increased household chores, and water collection being used as a form of discipline. Additionally, 32.3% of children in their households had no toilet facilities. Furthermore, inadequate household toilet facilities exposed children to restricted access, unsanitary conditions, and safety risks linked to latrines. These findings underscore the urgent need for accessible, in-home water and sanitation solutions to enhance children's health, well-being, and development.