Prince Safori Amponsah |Photo: Courtesy Prince

By: Prince Safori Amponsah, P4H Focal Person, Nkwanta South ( April 15, 2020)

Social interaction and bonding are embedded in the Ghanaian culture in different practices and forms. This makes it quite challenging for people to practice and get used to the social distancing directive in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. A visit to Nkwanta Market Day on Monday 13 April 2020 indicates that people have not fully understood the rationale for social distancing concerning the COVID-19 pandemic as they go about their normal day to day activities.

The relatively small size and structure of the Nkwanta market make it very difficult to space out traders. The local assembly and the security agencies have so far, not done enough to compel people to observe the social distance. Although hand washing facilities have been provided at all government departments, lorry stations and vantage points in Nkwanta. some of the hand washing facilities after just one week of use, persons responsible have failed to replace used logistics after they are exhausted. Shop owners have also been urged by authorities to provide water, soap and disposable hand wipes at visible places at their shops for customers.

There have been consented efforts from community leaders and government officials to make announcements on radio stations and through community information systems across the municipality to educate people to adhere to all protocols.

Persons assigned to keep the hand washing logistics have been urged by district authorities (assembly and community leaders) to make an effort to make adequate provision for water, soap and tissue available and encourage passers-by to wash their hands.   

Business activities ongoing at the Nkwanta market |Photo: Prince

An elderly practicing hand washing in Nkwanta |Photo: Prince