Ghana is facing a major public health crisis, with 5.4 million people practising open defecation, according to Yaw Attah Arhin, World Vision Ghana.

This, he said, represents 17.7% of the country's population, and it's a major worry. He said this at the 2025 World Toilet Day commemoration.

"There is no way you can avoid diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, and others because of the numbers involved," Arhin said.

He emphasised the need for government and stakeholders to take action to eradicate open defecation.

One gram of human faeces can contain 10 million viruses, 1 million bacteria, hundreds of parasites, and disease-causing germs, making open defecation a significant health risk.

Mr Arhin stressed that access to improved sanitation is crucial for child well-being and that ending open defecation is essential.

The problem is particularly acute in schools, with 26% of busy public schools lacking toilet facilities.

This leads to girls skipping classes, and it affects academic performance.

Mr Arhin called for increased access to toilets in schools and communities.

Open defecation is also linked to maternal deaths, accounting for 15% of all maternal deaths in the country.

Mr Arhin emphasised the need for creative industry players, producers, and influencers to help raise awareness about the issue.

"We need to re-awaken the nation's sanitation conscience," Mr Arhin said.

He urged content creators, social media influencers, and morning show hosts to promote sanitation and hygiene, highlighting the impact it can have on creating a healthier Ghana.