Iddrisu Bukari
University of Health and Allied Sciences-Ghana
Title: Consumers’ Perception of the Quality and Potability of Sachet-Drinking Water in the Ashanti Region of Ghana; A Multistage Study
Biography
Biography: Iddrisu Bukari
Abstract
Introduction: Water is one of the most essential and abundant commodities of man occupying about 70% of the earth’s surface (Hazen and Toranzos, 1990). This study is assessed consumers’ perception on the quality and potability of sachet-drinking water in the Ahafo Ano South District. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using simple random sampling to select 3 sub-district, five communities and 300 sachet water consumers, 50 wholesalers and 7 sachet water producers in the Ahafo-Ano South District. Results: The findings obtained were: Majority of consumers and wholesale 83.7% and 66% respectively had adequate knowledge on basic properties of water, majority 66% of wholesale respondents had adequate knowledge on safe storage conditions of sachet water, 24%, 8% and 14.3% of consumers, wholesalers and manufacturers had knowledge about sachet water regulatory bodies, 0% and 14.3% of wholesalers and manufacturers are trained on water quality controls. Recommendation: In conclusion, based on their adequate knowledge on the basic properties of water, majority of consumers are able to make clear distinction between good quality water and poor quality one, also due to the lack of training on water safety and quality controls in the sachet water supply chain, stakeholders should prioritize trainings and regulatory intensify their monitoring systems.