Assessment of Improved Water and Sanitation Facilities in the Volta Region; Evidence From Ghana Demographic Health Survey 2022 Report

Background Access to improved sanitation and clean water is a basic human right, yet it proves to be challenging in some regions, including the Volta Region of Ghana. The Ghana Demographic and Health Survey Report 2022 indicates that only about 24% of the population in the Volta Region has access to improved water and sanitation services. Open defecation remains prevalent, with rates as high as 90.4% in some municipal areas. These issues pose serious health risks and hinder progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure access to safe water and sanitation for all by 2030. This study assesses household access to clean water and sanitation facilities in the Volta region. Method The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design. A stratified representative sample of 18450 households was selected in 618 clusters. This study was conducted in the Volta region, based on evidence from the 2022 GDHS report. The analysis was conducted using STATA version 17. Descriptive statistics, such as tables, graphs, and summary statistics, were employed to present the results among the sampled population Results The study population consisted of 55.7% males and 44.3% females, predominantly aged 35–54, married, residing in rural areas, and with secondary education. Despite 67.7% having access to improved toilet facilities, only 22.5% had access to improved drinking water, indicating a substantial gap, particularly in rural regions. Significant predictors of access to improved toilet facilities included educational level (aOR 2.04; 95% CI: 1.22–3.44), marital status (aOR 2.31; 95% CI: 1.11–4.78), household wealth (aOR 2.57; 95% CI: 1.43–4.61), and place of residence, with rural residents being less likely to have improved facilities (aOR 0.24; 95% CI: 0.09–0.59). Although drinking water source and age were not significant predictors, those with improved water sources were 15% less likely to have improved toilet facilities (aOR 0.85; 95% CI: 0.48–1.52), and individuals aged 35–54 were 22% less likely compared to those aged 15–34 (aOR 0.78; 95% CI: 0.42–1.42). These results underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance water quality and sanitation, especially in rural communities, to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030. Conclusion There are improved toilet facilities in the Volta region; however, efforts are needed to provide universal access to clean drinking water to achieve SDG 6. Addressing this issue is vital for enhancing public health and living standards in the area.