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Appiah-Effah E, Duku GA, Boakye K, Oduro C, Nyarko KB. Navigating Taxpayers Attitude: Exploring Support for Urban Sanitation Surcharge in Kumasi. Environ Health Insights 2024; 18:11786302241247797. [PMID: 38646158 PMCID: PMC11032062 DOI: 10.1177/11786302241247797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Urban sanitation challenges persist in Ghana, prompting Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to explore innovative funding mechanisms such as surcharges to fund sanitation services. This study assesses property owners' attitudes toward the imposition of sanitation surcharge for pro-poor sanitation improvement in the Kumasi Metropolis. Method An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 424 property owners in the Kumasi metropolis. Structured questionnaires were utilized to solicit information from respondents using multi-stage sampling techniques. Results Findings indicated that 36.1% of respondents were willing to pay the sanitation surcharge, while 63.9% opposed its implementation in the Metropolis. Property ownership and support for a sanitation surcharge were associated with higher odds of willingness to pay. Participants paying property rates had decreased odds of supporting the sanitation surcharge. Factors associated with pro-poor spending support included age (61-80 years) [AOR = 1.81, 95%CI = 1.60-3.82] and willingness to pay sanitation surcharge [AOR = 11.07, 95%CI = 6.63-18.49]. Protective factors against supporting pro-poor spending included residing in medium-class communities [AOR = 0.25, 95%CI = 0.08-0.81], perceiving improvement in sanitation status [AOR = 0.41, 95%CI = 0.21-0.81) and having a home toilet facility (OR = 0.65, 95%CI = 0.36-0.95). Conclusion The study revealed a nuanced landscape where concerns about fund utilization, perceived tax burdens, and trust in local institutions significantly shape public sentiment. To enhance public acceptance and participation, policymakers should prioritize transparent communication to build trust and convey the effective utilization of funds from the sanitation surcharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Godwin Armstrong Duku
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Boakye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Charles Oduro
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
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Appiah-Effah E, Boakye K, Salihu T, Duku GA, Fenteng JOD, Boateng G, Appiah F, Nyarko KB. Determinants of Open Defecation Among Rural Women in Ghana: Analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys. Environ Health Insights 2024; 18:11786302241226774. [PMID: 38269144 PMCID: PMC10807390 DOI: 10.1177/11786302241226774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Open defecation continuously remains a major global sanitation challenge, contributing to an estimated 1.6 million deaths per year. Ghana ranks second in Africa for open defecation and had the fourth-lowest sanitation coverage in 2010. Evidence indicates that about 32% of the rural Ghanaian population still practice open defecation due to lack of access to basic sanitation facilities, drifting the country from achieving universal access to sanitation by 2030. Women, particularly those in rural areas, are disproportionately affected by open defecation, facing heightened health risks, harassment, and a loss of dignity. Even though previous studies on open defecation in Ghana exist, they lack national representation and neglect women in rural residents who are disproportionally affected by the repercussions of open defecation. Examining that rural women will contribute to heightening their own vulnerability to health risks by practising open defecation is essential to bridging the literature gap on open defecation practices among rural women. The study investigated determinants of open defecation among rural women in Ghana using data from the female files of the 2003, 2008 and 2014 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). A total of 4,284 rural women with complete information on variables of interest were included in the study. The outcome variable was 'open defecation', whilst 14 key explanatory variables (e.g., age, education, wealth status, among others) were used. Two logistic regression models were built, and the outputs were reported in odds ratio. Descriptively, 42 in every 100 women aged 15 to 49 practiced open defecation (n = 1811, 95% CI = 49-52). Open defecation (OD) significantly correlated with educational attainment, wealth status, religion, access to mass media, partner's education, and zone of residence. The likelihood of practicing open defecation reduced among those with formal education [aOR = 0.69, CI = 0.56-0.85], those whose partners had formal education [aOR = 0.64, CI = 0.52-0.80], women in the rich wealth quintile [aOR = 0.12, CI = 0.07-0.20], the traditionalist [aOR = 0.33, CI = 0.19-0.57], and those who had access to mass media [aOR = 0.70, CI = 0.57-0.85]. Residents in the Savannah zone had higher odds of openly defecating [aOR = 21.06, CI = 15.97-27.77]. The prevalence of open defecation is disproportionately pro-poor, which indicates that impoverished rural women are more likely to perform it. Public health initiatives should aim to close the rich-poor divide in OD practice among rural women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Boakye
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Tarif Salihu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Godwin Armstrong Duku
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - George Boateng
- Department of Social Science, Berekum College of Education, Berekum, Ghana
| | - Francis Appiah
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Department of Social Science, Berekum College of Education, Berekum, Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Azuamah KO, Appiah-Effah E, Akodwaa-Boadi K. Water quality index, ecotoxicology and human health risk modelling of surface and groundwater along illegal crude oil refining sites in a developing economy. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20631. [PMID: 37818007 PMCID: PMC10560844 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Water quality index, ecotoxicology and human health risk models were applied to surface and groundwater samples along illegal crude oil refining sites in Rivers State, Nigeria. Eight (8) surface water and four (4) groundwater sampling points were identified along illegal refining sites. Thirty-six (36) samples in triplicates were collected monthly from each of the twelve (12) sampling points over a three (3) month period. Water samples were collected and analyzed using standard methods as prescribed by the American Public Health Association. The mean pH for surface and groundwater ranged from 5.61 ± 0.15 to 7.34 ± 0.10 and 5.80 ± 0.10 to 6.39 ± 0.13, respectively. Turbidity, TDS, and BOD data for surface water samples exceeded the WHO guideline values. The ionic dominance pattern of anions for both surface and groundwater water samples were the same and in the order Cl- > SO42- > NO3- > PO42-. Mean heavy metal concentration was in the order Pb > Ni > Fe > Cd > Mn > Cu for surface water and Pb > Cd > Fe > Mn > Ni > Cu for groundwater. Cd and Pb concentrations in both sources were generally high, with Cd exceeding the WHO guideline value (GV). The CCME water quality index model ranked 62.5% of surface water as marginal, 12.5% as good, 12.5% as poor, and 12.5% as fair. The impact of heavy metals on public health was in the order Pb > Cd > Ni > Fe > Mn, with 83% of samples seriously affected by Pb pollution. The potential ecological risk index ranged from 1.61 × 103 to 2.64 × 103 for surface water and 8.10 × 102 to 2.21 × 103 for groundwater. Heavy metal contamination was very high, and the ecological risk effect was extremely high. The health risk through oral ingestion was in the order of adults > infants > children. Two principal components, PC1 and PC2, explained 50.51% and 16.00% of the variations in surface water quality, respectively. For groundwater quality data, three principal components explained the observed variations in water quality data, of which 51.39% is attributed to PC1, 26.29% to PC2, and 16.58% to PC3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kingsley Onyedika Azuamah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Kofi Akodwaa-Boadi
- Department of Environmental Health and Sanitation Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Ghana
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, Department of Desalination and Water Treatment, Albert Katz International School for Desert Studies, The Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Israel
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Acquah MN, Essandoh HMK, Oduro-Kwarteng S, Appiah-Effah E, Owusu PA. Degradation and accumulation rates of fresh human excreta during vermicomposting by Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae. J Environ Manage 2021; 293:112817. [PMID: 34091141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study was carried out to assess the degradation and accumulation rates of fresh human excreta and how addition of anal cleansing materials affect performance during vermicomposting by Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae. Vermicomposting setups consisting of two transparent containers (length 0.27 m, breadth 0.17 m and depth 0.12 m) stacked on top of each other were installed and operated under laboratory conditions. Earthworms, Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae, were obtained from Green Cycle Technologies Limited in Accra, Ghana and the species verified and cultured before use. Fresh human excreta for feeding the experimental setups was collected from an Enviro-loo public toilet and 13 g applied to the setups daily. Similar setups were fed with 0.3 g of anal cleansing material in addition to the fresh excreta. A setup without any earthworms (NW) was set up as a control. Physicochemical characteristics of vermicompost accumulating in the setups were determined weekly for 28 days using standard laboratory procedures while the sludge accumulated in the various setups were weighed and recorded daily. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post-hoc LSD tests were conducted to determine whether the differences in results between the two earthworm species and among setups with and without anal cleansing materials were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05). The study showed 12.3% and 26.2% reduction in volatile solids in EE (Eudrilus eugeniae and excreta only) and EF (Eisenia fetida and excreta only) while ash content increased indicating good degradation. The percentage mass reductions recorded at the end of the fourth week were 67.5%, 58.8% and 40.5% in systems EE, EF and NW respectively, while reductions of 73.7% and 68.5% were realized in EEA (Eudrilus eugeniae with excreta and toilet paper) and EFA (Eisenia fetida with excreta and toilet paper) respectively. There was greater amount of sludge accumulated in systems without earthworms, 0.00020 m3 (59.5%) in NW, than in systems with earthworms where 0.00011 m3 (32.5%) and 0.00014 m3 (41.2%) were recorded for EE and EF respectively. The rate of accumulation in vermibeds EE and EF was relatively higher than in vermibeds with excreta and toilet paper (EEA and EFA). EEA and EFA recorded accumulation rates of 0.00009 m3 (26.3%) and 0.00011 m3 (31.5%) respectively. Complete removal of helminth eggs was not achieved in any of the treatment systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Nyame Acquah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Helen Michelle Korkor Essandoh
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Sampson Oduro-Kwarteng
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Abstract
Drinking water in Ghana is estimated at 79%, but this only represents the proportion of the population with access to improved drinking water sources without regard to the quality of water consumed. This study investigated the quality of household drinking water sources in the Oforikrom municipality where potable water requirements are on the rise due to an ever-increasing population. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed in this study. One Hundred households were randomly selected and interviewed on the available options for drinking water and household water treatment and safe storage. A total of 52 points of collection (POC) and 97 points of use (POU) water samples from households were collected for physicochemical and microbial water quality analysis. Amongst the available drinking water options, sachet water (46%) was mostly consumed by households. Water quality analysis revealed that the physicochemical parameters of all sampled drinking water sources were within the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) recommended values expected for pH (ranging from 4.50 to 7.50). For the drinking water sources, bottled (100%, n = 2) and sachet water (91%, n = 41) showed relatively good microbial water quality. Generally, POC water samples showed an improved microbial water quality in comparison to POU water samples. About 38% (n = 8) of the households practicing water quality management, were still exposed to unsafe drinking water sources. Households should practice good water quality management at the domestic level to ensure access to safe drinking water. This may include the use of chlorine-based disinfectants to frequently disinfect boreholes, wells and storage facilities at homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Nketiah Ahenkorah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Godwin Armstrong Duku
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Kumasi (RWESCK), Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Appiah-Effah E, Duku GA, Dwumfour-Asare B, Manu I, Nyarko KB. Toilet chemical additives and their effect on faecal sludge characteristics. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04998. [PMID: 32995646 PMCID: PMC7511817 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of two mostly improvised chemical additives, calcium carbide and lambda super 2.5 EC (LSEC), on the physico–chemical and microbial characteristics of faecal sludge from toilets. The quality of faecal sludge was assessed before and after application of the chemical additives in an experimental setup of ten different treatment units including a control, and treatment replicates. The initial characteristic of the faecal sludge was slightly acidic with high content of slowly degradable organic matter. The experimental control without additives after 30 days showed reduction in BOD5, COD, helminth eggs and sludge mass by a maximum of 30%, 34.7%, 99.8% and 55% respectively. Similarly, calcium carbide additive reduced the BOD5, COD, helminth eggs and the mass of the faecal sludge by 47.4%, 48.3%, 99.6% and 61% respectively. Also, LSEC additive reduced BOD5, COD, helminth eggs and the mass of the sludge by 40.6%, 47.9%, 95.9% and 58% respectively. The two additives showed significant treatment effect on the faecal sludge although the level of treatment could not meet the regulatory discharge limits for the key quality parameters assessed including sanitisation. The study is still a grey area and more research is recommended to enrich the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Ghana
| | - Godwin Armstrong Duku
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Ghana
| | - Bismark Dwumfour-Asare
- Department of Environmental Health and Sanitation Education, University of Education Winneba, Asante-Mampong Campus Ghana
| | - Isaac Manu
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Regional Water and Environmental Sanitation Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi Ghana
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Mantey J, Nyarko KB, Owusu-Nimo F, Awua KA, Bempah CK, Amankwah RK, Akatu WE, Appiah-Effah E. Influence of illegal artisanal small-scale gold mining operations (galamsey) on oil and grease (O/G) concentrations in three hotspot assemblies of Western Region, Ghana. Environ Pollut 2020; 263:114251. [PMID: 32247901 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study determined the contamination levels of oil and grease (O/G) across nine (9) galamsey operations under different environmental media (background soil, surface drainage, slurry/sludge and galamsey wastes) in three galamsey hotspot assemblies (Tarkwa Nsuaem, Amenfi East and Prestea Huni Valley) within the Western region of Ghana. Triplicate samples each of the four environmental media for the nine galamsey types (Washing Board, Washing Plant, Anwona, Dig and Wash, Dredging, Underground Abandoned Shaft, Underground Sample Pit, Chamfi and Mill House) were collected and analysed using n-hexane extractable materials in acidic medium by extraction and gravimetry to determine O/G concentrations. From the comparison of mean ranked concentration of O/G, using Kruskal-Wallis Test, the observed differences in the ranking was significant across all four media. The O/G concentrations for Anwona, Chamfi, Mill House, Washing Board and Washing Plant galamsey recorded exceedances when compared to the Ghana EPA Effluent Guideline Value of 100 mg/L for water and The New Dutch Lists' Target and Intervention Value of 50 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg for solid/semi-solid materials. Consistently and for all environmental media types, the levels of O/G across the galamsey types were in the descending order of: Washing Board, Chamfi, Anwona, Mill House, Washing Plant, Underground Sample Pit, River Dredging, Dig and Wash, Underground Abandoned Shaft and Control Sample (non-galamseyed areas). In general, the surface drainage medium was predominantly found to be the most impacted upon medium from hydrocarbons by seven of the nine galamsey operations (Washing Board, Anwona, Chamfi, Mill House, Dredging, Dig and Wash and Underground Sample Pit). This was followed by slurry/sludge, background soil and waste media in that order. Expectedly, there were no exceedances for the Reference or Control Samples (non-galamseyed areas).
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mantey
- Gold Fields Ghana Limited, Environmental Department, P.O Box 26, Tarkwa, Ghana.
| | - K B Nyarko
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - F Owusu-Nimo
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - K A Awua
- Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box LG80, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - C K Bempah
- Nuclear Chemistry and Environmental Research Center, National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box LG 80, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - R K Amankwah
- Mineral Engineering Department, The University of Mines & Technology, P. O. Box 237, Tarkwa, Ghana.
| | - W E Akatu
- Knight Piésold Consulting, No. 20, 2nd Close Airport Residential Area, Accra, Ghana.
| | - E Appiah-Effah
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana.
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Mantey J, Nyarko KB, Owusu-Nimo F, Awua KA, Bempah CK, Amankwah RK, Akatu WE, Appiah-Effah E. Mercury contamination of soil and water media from different illegal artisanal small-scale gold mining operations (galamsey). Heliyon 2020; 6:e04312. [PMID: 32637700 PMCID: PMC7327258 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental media contamination with mercury, because of illegal artisanal small-scale gold mining (popularly called galamsey), is a major concern in Ghana; yet specific details as to how such contaminations are influenced or distributed across different galamsey operations have been lacking. We monitored mercury levels across nine different galamsey operations (Washing Board, Washing Plant, Anwona, Dig and Wash, Dredging, Underground Abandoned Shaft, Underground Sample Pit, Chamfi and Mill House) in three hotspot assemblies (Tarkwa Nsuaem, Amenfi East and Prestea Huni Valley) of the Western Region of Ghana. Triplicate samples each of background soil, surface water/drainage, slurry/sludge and galamsey waste materials (totaling 160) were obtained and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) to determine total Hg concentrations. From the comparison of mean ranked concentration of mercury, using the Kruskal-Wallis Test, it was realized that the observed differences in ranking was significant for all four environmental media considered. Thus, the poor handling, usage and disposal of mercury from the different galamsey activities did result in elevation of harmful quantities of mercury into the environment. Overall, the highest median value obtained for mercury was recorded at the Mill House galamsey sites and within slurry/sludge medium. This was followed by Chamfi, Washing Board, Washing Plant, Anwona, Dig and Wash and Dredging in descending order, with the Underground Abandoned Shaft and Underground Sample Pit galamsey types recording values below detection limit. In terms of their contribution to mercury contamination to the environment, Mill House, Chamfi, Anwona, Washing Board and Washing Plant galamsey types recorded the highest mean rankings. Overall, key priority information required for influencing reclamation and cleanup policy decisions for mercury, for the many affected wastelands across the country, can be derived from this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mantey
- Gold Fields Ghana Limited, Environmental Department, P.O Box 26, Tarkwa, Ghana
| | - K B Nyarko
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - F Owusu-Nimo
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - K A Awua
- Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box LG80, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - C K Bempah
- Nuclear Chemistry and Environmental Research Center, National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box LG 80, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - R K Amankwah
- Mineral Engineering Department, The University of Mines & Technology, P. O. Box 237, Tarkwa, Ghana
| | - W E Akatu
- Knight Piésold Consulting, No. 20, 2 Close Airport Residential Area, Accra, Ghana
| | - E Appiah-Effah
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
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Duku GA, Appiah-Effah E, Nyarko KB, Dwumfour-Asare B. Early live-prototype testing of a low-cost latrine technology for rural and peri‑urban communities: The case of a modified pour-flush latrine. Scientific African 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Sagoe G, Danquah FS, Amofa-Sarkodie ES, Appiah-Effah E, Ekumah E, Mensah EK, Karikari KS. GIS-aided optimisation of faecal sludge management in developing countries: the case of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, Ghana. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02505. [PMID: 31687595 PMCID: PMC6819848 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study employed GIS tools to help optimise faecal sludge (FS) management in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) and its environs in Ghana. First, the rates of excreta generation, FS generation and FS collection were quantified based on literature, census and FS discharge data obtained from treatment plants in the study area. Next, we mapped the FS collection to the administrative areas in GAMA based on discharge records obtained from Lavender Hill, the main faecal treatment (FTP) and estimated the travel distance and travel time from the various FS desludging neighbourhoods to the plant. The results of the study show that the excreta and FS generation rates in GAMA are 604 L/cap/yr and 4,137 L/cap/yr, respectively. About 1 million m3 of FS was collected and treated in the study area in 2018, with a collection rate of 244 L/cap/yr. The private sector dominates this collection, haulage and treatment of FS in GAMA. The GIS analysis has provided fundamental data that will be useful in rationalising the FS emptying and transport cost in the study area. Moreover, it revealed that about 20–40% of the localities were outside the 15–25 km sustainable maximum transport distance recommended by some scholars. Finally, the findings highlight the importance of looking beyond administrative boundaries when planning for FS management logistics and infrastructure and also show that the most impoverished communities in the Accra metropolis may not necessarily be the least served when it comes to FS collection and haulage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Sagoe
- Sewerage Systems Ghana Ltd, P. O. Box GP 1630, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Department of Civil Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Elsie Ekumah
- Sewerage Systems Ghana Ltd, P. O. Box GP 1630, Accra, Ghana
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Woode PK, Dwumfour-Asare B, Nyarko KB, Appiah-Effah E. Cost and effectiveness of water, sanitation and hygiene promotion intervention in Ghana: the case of four communities in the Brong Ahafo region. Heliyon 2018; 4:e00841. [PMID: 30302413 PMCID: PMC6174546 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of cost and effectiveness of Ghana's main hygiene promotion intervention (HPI), Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS), is critical for policy direction. Cost and resultant effect of HPI is examined using a case study of four communities. Surveys were conducted with 300 households, CLTS implementers and relevant agencies during the study period (May 2012 to February 2014). The HPI produced marginal but statistically significant effect (8%, p < 0.001). Improvement in hygiene behaviour was statistically associated with both government investments (p < 0.001) and household investments (p < 0.001). Actual HPI cost is US$ 90 per household: US$ 51 and 39 from government and households respectively. Cost-effectiveness of the HPI is US$ 106.42 per capita of improved hygiene behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paa Kwesi Woode
- Civil Engineering Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bismark Dwumfour-Asare
- Environmental Health & Sanitation Department, Faculty of Science & Environment Education, University of Education, Winneba, Asante-Mampong Campus, Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Civil Engineering Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Civil Engineering Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Owusu-Nimo F, Mantey J, Nyarko KB, Appiah-Effah E, Aubynn A. Spatial distribution patterns of illegal artisanal small scale gold mining ( Galamsey) operations in Ghana: A focus on the Western Region. Heliyon 2018; 4:e00534. [PMID: 29511743 PMCID: PMC5835009 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there have been efforts by stakeholders to monitor illegal mining (galamsey) activities, foster their formalization and reclaim the many abandoned wastelands in Ghana. However, limited information exists on the locations, abundance, scope and scale of galamsey types, which hinders the development of effective policy response. This study attempts to map and analyze the distribution patterns, abundance, activity statuses and the extents of nine (9) galamsey types within eleven (11) Municipal and District Assemblies (MDAs) of Ghana's Western Region. It explores the utility of field-based survey, using the Open Data Kit (ODK) system, ArcGIS and Google Earth Imagery to map and visualize different galamsey types under a hostile working environment. A total of 911 galamsey sightings, of which 547 were found in clusters (corresponding to approximately 7106 individual operational units) and 364 in stand-alone mode. Overall, a total of 7470 individual galamsey operations were encountered in 312 different communities (towns and villages). Operationally, the Alluvial Washing Board, Mill-House and Chamfi were found to be the three most popular and practiced galamsey types. The three main galamsey hotspot districts (out of the 11) are the Tarkwa Nsuaem (294 sightings and 3648 individual galamsey sites), Amenfi East (223 sightings and 1397 individual galamsey sites) and Prestea Huni-Valley Districts (156 sightings and 1130 individual galamsey sites). In terms of their activity statuses, 199 abandoned operations (entailing 1855 individual operations), 664 active (entailing 5055 individuals operations) and 48 semi-active (comprising 560 individuals within clusters) galamsey operations were sighted at the time of the study. While galamsey is generally acknowledged to be widespread in Ghana, the results suggest a scale that probably surpasses any previous estimate or expectation. The findings will adequately inform the prioritization of reclamation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Owusu-Nimo
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Civil Department, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - J Mantey
- Gold Fields Ghana Limited, Environmental Department, P.O Box 26, Tarkwa, Ghana
| | - K B Nyarko
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Civil Department, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Civil Department, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - A Aubynn
- Ghana Minerals Commission, Accra, Ghana
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Dwumfour-Asare B, Adantey P, Nyarko KB, Appiah-Effah E. Greywater characterization and handling practices among urban households in Ghana: the case of three communities in Kumasi Metropolis. Water Sci Technol 2017; 76:813-822. [PMID: 28799928 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2017.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Greywater management in Ghana receives little or no attention although untreated greywater is associated with environmental and public health risks. This paper assesses greywater characteristics and handling practices among urban households in three selected communities in Kumasi, the second largest city of Ghana. The study involved in-depth surveys (interviews and observations) with 90 households, and collection of 18 greywater samples from nine greywater sources for laboratory analysis. Average greywater generation is 43.36 ± 17 litres per capita per day, equivalent to 36% of average water consumption. Greywater is untreated before disposal (≈99%), and disposal is mainly (89%) into drains and onto streets. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels are high but give very low BOD/COD ratios (0.20 ± 0.07) indicating a very low biodegradability potential. Nutrient levels are high: 12 times (P) and 30 times (N) in excess of standard discharge limits. Other contaminants detected are heavy metals (Fe, Pb, Zn and Cd), microbes (total coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp.), and organic micropollutants - benzalkonium chloride, parabens (methyl and propyl), sodium benzoate and hypochlorite - and details of the levels are discussed in the paper. Greywater reuse could be useful for biomass production, but it also presents a challenge and threat to natural biological processes and water sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bismark Dwumfour-Asare
- Department of Environmental Health and Sanitation Education, College of Agriculture Education, University of Education, Winneba, Asante-Mampong, Ghana E-mail: ; Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Philomina Adantey
- Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko
- Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eugene Appiah-Effah
- Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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