The Media Coalition Against Open Defecation (M-CODe) is set to organize a three-day empowerment forum for journalists in the Eastern Region from Wednesday, August 30th, to Friday, September 1st.
This initiative aims to bolster reportage against open defecation as part of the broader “M-CODe 2023 Anti-Open Defecation Nationwide Advocacy” activities, supported by World Vision Ghana.
Mr. Francis Ameyibor, M-CODe National Convenor, highlighted the significance of the forum, emphasizing the involvement of various stakeholders such as the Regional Coordinating Council, Environmental Health Department, Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, and more.
The participation of these stakeholders, alongside journalists, aims to create a comprehensive approach to combat open defecation.
The empowerment of journalists is deemed crucial by M-CODe, recognizing their role as critical partners in rejuvenating public awareness campaigns to achieve the global target of eliminating open defecation by 2030. Mr. Ameyibor underscored the importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Goal 6, stressing the adverse effects of open defecation on dignity, health, and well-being, particularly for girls and women.
Moreover, the forum will focus on engaging strategic stakeholders, including Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Ministry of Sanitation, among others, to sustain the campaign towards creating an open defecation-free society.
The M-CODe 2023 Anti-OD Nationwide Advocacy also targets various sectors, including religious and traditional leaders, media personnel, celebrities, politicians, civil society organizations, and industry players, to rally support for the cause.
M-CODe reiterated its call on the corporate world to contribute to national efforts to end open defecation by investing in the construction, maintenance, and use of latrines and other essential services.
