Swim 1922

Drowning incidents have a variety of causes, including economic activities like fishing, lack of parental supervision, recreational activities, children's curiosity, absence of swimming instruction, and the threat of flooding. These factors contribute to a grim statistic: 2.5 billion people worldwide lack access to proper sanitation facilities, with over 40% of the global population resorting to open or unsanitary spaces.

Drowning does not discriminate; however, certain trends emerge. The most vulnerable age groups are children aged 5 to 9, children aged 10 to 14, young people aged 18 to 25, and those aged 25 to 35. Males are disproportionately impacted, while females are also affected, often during recreational activities.

Ghana, known for its vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, harbors a hidden danger. The WHO's 2020 report paints a bleak picture, with 740 drowning deaths accounting for 0.42% of overall deaths, ranking Ghana 93rd globally for drowning fatalities. This serves as a stark reminder that the threat is real and close to home.

Ghana's drowning issue is not unique in the Sub-Saharan African region. Neighboring countries like Burkina Faso (910 deaths) and Togo (225 deaths) share our sorrow, while Ivory Coast grapples with a staggering 1,232 deaths. Accidents are all too common in West African countries with long coastlines and riverine communities, particularly during the rainy season from July to September.

This is a silent crisis that should alarm and urge us to take action. We must demand change not only from elected officials but from ourselves as a community. The drowning epidemic in Ghana and neighboring nations is a catastrophe that cannot be ignored any longer. Nu Lambda Sigma is launching SWIM 1922 in Ghana and Sierra Leone to provide our community with opportunities to learn water safety and swimming, reduce fear and apprehension associated with learning to swim, and change attitudes towards Blacks and swimming. Together, we can be the lifeline our country urgently needs.