HSBC commits $25m for water and sanitation projects in Ghana

UK-based multinational banking and financial services company, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), has committed to providing $25m for water and sanitation projects in Ghana.

HSBC is partnering with the WaterAid in Ghana (WAG), a non-government organisation, to undertake projects that will supply potable water and provide improved access to sanitation to over 200,000 people in five districts in the country.

HSBC’s water programme will provide the financial support with $100m it has reserved to help six countries in Asia and Africa.

The five districts to benefit from the projects are Birim North and Kwahu North in the eastern region, Tamale in the northern region, Bolgatanga in the upper east region and Wa in the upper west region.

WAG policy and partnerships head Ibrahim Musah was quoted by Ghana Business News as saying that the organisation will work with HSBC for the next five years to provide safe drinkable water and sanitation services to local communities.

"Together with HSBC and our local partners, communities will not only benefit from improved access to safe water and sanitation, they will also learn about hygiene and implementing and maintaining new infrastructure," Musah added.

"Access to sanitation can help to restore dignity and, particularly for women, help to reduce discrimination and marginalisation."

HSBC Environmental Programmes senior manager Sue Alexander said, "We believe that if you give people the basic necessities of life, that will then encourage them, and enable them to make the most to reach their full potential."

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Image: HSBC’s financial aid will give five districts in Ghana access to safe, drinkable water. Photo: Bob Metcalf.