Residents of Sibi, a suburb of the Nkwanta North District in the Oti Region, are forced to patronise water from contaminated sources due to lack of access to portable drinking water in the area.

The situation has further increased the risk of waterborne diseases like typhoid, which has been the region’s health topic in recent times.

The region is grappling with a significant surge in typhoid fever cases, with Nkwanta North being one of the most affected areas, with Ghana Health Service data showing a total case record of 1,589 in the first half of this year, sparking widespread concerns among health authorities and the residents.

The water situation in the area is dire, with residents encountering snakes and other reptiles while searching for water for household chores, heightening their fears about long-term health implications.

Mr Eric Kojo Agboka, the District Health Director of Nkwanta North, said there was the need for coordinated efforts to address both the outbreak and underlying water quality and sanitation issues in the area.

He also advocated for increased public awareness on hygiene and sanitation practices to curb disease transmission.