The African Water Facility has approved a grant of €225,000 to the Government of the Republic of Ghana as co-financing for Feasibility Study and Detailed Designs for Accra East Sanitation and Sewerage Improvement Project (AESIP).
This funding will contribute to revision and modernization of studies and designs which were developed in 2005, paving the way for significant improvements in the region's sanitation and sewerage systems. It will also support the preparation of an investment-ready project aimed at enhancing sanitation services.
Despite Ghana's progress in water accessibility, with about 88% of its population having access to clean drinking water, improved sanitation coverage remains critically low at 29%. This places Ghana among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa in terms of sanitation facilities, contributing to environmental pollution, health risks, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
The AESIP project will respond to this by revising and updating essential studies and designs including socio-economic surveys and environmental assessments to attract investments and develop the Accra East sewerage system, which remains incomplete due to funding shortages. This comprehensive approach will not only facilitate future investments but also ensure the sustainable management of sanitation services and infrastructure particularly for the urban poor.
Mtchera Chirwa, Coordinator of the African Water Facility said, “This project will improve sanitation access, health outcomes, and quality of life. It is a necessary step towards sustainable development in Accra and aligns with our strategic priorities of enhancing urban sanitation across Africa.”
The AESIP project aligns with the African Water Facility's revised Operational Strategy for 2017-2025 with focus on preparing bankable projects for sanitation improvement. It supports Ghana's goal of making Accra the cleanest city in Africa. It is also in line with the African Development Bank’s High-5 priorities particularly “Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa”, and “Feed Africa” by promoting sustainable agricultural practices through the reuse of sanitation products.
The project is expected to provide benefit to 1.2 million people in the targeted settlements in Accra East.
Media Contact : Mary Ajayi, Water Development and Sanitation Department, [email protected]