%0 Journal Article
%T ˇ°Going Free Rangeˇ± an Exploratory Inquiry into the Practice of Open Defecation in the Dungu Community of Tamale, Ghana
%A Akosua Bonsu Karikari
%A Akua Afriyie Karikari
%A Nana Afia Karikari
%J Current Urban Studies
%P 319-328
%@ 2328-4919
%D 2023
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/cus.2023.112017
%X Open defecation is prevalent in areas that lack adequate sanitary
facilities. The practice undoubtedly causes multiple health concerns not only
in areas where it is mostly practiced but transcends <span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\">to</span></span></span><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"> other
neighbouring communities. Using qualitative approach as the methodological
orientation, the study explored the </span></span></span><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\">causes</span></span></span><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"><span style=\"font-family:Verdana;\"> of
open defecation and the peculiar behaviours of inhabitants of Dungu to the
practice. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were used to solicit
information from participants. It was realized from the examined data that the
practice was just not about sanitary issues such as insufficient toilets, and
unclean toilets but also an attitudinal pattern. The convenience and the fun
which characterize ˇ°free rangeˇ± made overt defecation a preferred option. With
the prevailing causes, it is suggested that the assembly should work with
agencies especially NGOs to help provide more toilets and also intensify
education to members of the community on the importance of desisting from open
defecation.</span></span></span>
%K Open Defecation
%K Ghana
%K Sanitary Facilities
%K Health
%K Environment
%K Practice
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=125921