Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) is an innovative, efficient, and hygienic solution designed to promote proper hand hygiene, reduce disease transmission, and support sustainable water use globally.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

In a society where we typically use our hands to enjoy the majority of our local dishes, the importance of keeping our hands conveniently clean seems to have been underestimated, particularly in the hospitality sector. Today, even at upscale restaurants in Ghana and Africa, when a customer orders a hand-consumed item from the local menu, a notable practice unfolds. Two sets of finger bowls, each filled with clean water, are presented at the table. The concept is to initiate the first round of hand washing in the initial bowl and follow up with a second round in the other after the meal concludes. It's crucial to note that this method is designed for a single customer. Imagine the logistical challenge and potential chaos if multiple individuals at a table required the same treatment. The inconvenience, mess, and inefficiency become apparent.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem the Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) aims to solve is the lack of convenient, efficient, and hygienic handwashing facilities in various environments. This issue is particularly pressing in eatery joints and areas with limited access to running water and sanitation infrastructure, which poses significant public health risks. The PAHW addresses these problems by offering a portable, automatic handwashing device that ensures thorough and hygienic cleaning of hands while optimizing water use. Its portability and efficiency make it suitable for diverse environments, including homes, offices, schools, public spaces, and emergency situations. By making hand hygiene more accessible and convenient, the PAHW helps to reduce the spread of diseases, conserve water, and improve overall public health outcomes.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) is an innovative, compact device designed to improve hand hygiene conveniently and efficiently. It features touch-free operation using sensors to dispense water, reducing cross-contamination and ensuring thorough cleaning. Its portability makes it ideal for various settings, including homes, offices, schools, outdoor events, and emergencies. The PAHW optimizes water usage, conserving resources and supporting environmental sustainability. It doubles as a liquid dispenser for beverages, enhancing its versatility. The PAHW promotes disease prevention, aligns with health guidelines, and provides economic benefits through cost savings and job creation. It supports global health, sanitation, and sustainability goals, making it a valuable tool for improving hygiene and public health worldwide.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) targets a wide range of beneficiaries, including families, healthcare workers, hospitality staff, students, and employees, as well as public space visitors, event attendees, emergency responders, and individuals in remote or underserved communities. Designed to improve hand hygiene conveniently and efficiently, the PAHW reduces disease transmission and supports environmental sustainability by optimizing water use. It serves hospitals, schools, offices, hotels, public transport hubs, and disaster relief efforts, promoting health and safety in various settings. This versatile device also aligns with water conservation and sustainable living initiatives, making it a valuable tool for enhancing hygiene practices globally.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2019-01-10

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Mr. Davidson is presently a practicing Business Engineer and Problem Consultant. He is a High Valued Asset (HVA) in multidisciplinary business and managerial spheres with a proven track record of successfully developing, executing, and managing complex business portfolios with global interest, (including for the governments of Akwa Ibom state, in Nigeria, The republic of Zambia and The Central American - Republic of Belize) projects spanning various segments and industries.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: hygiene and sanitation industry

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) indirectly contributes to SDG 1 by potentially creating job opportunities through its production, distribution, and maintenance. By stimulating local economies and supporting businesses that adopt the PAHW, especially in underserved communities, it can contribute to poverty reduction. Additionally, improved hand hygiene promoted by the PAHW can lead to better health outcomes, reducing healthcare costs and economic burdens on families, which are aspects of poverty alleviation. However, direct impact on poverty eradication may vary depending on broader socio-economic factors and implementation contexts.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) indirectly supports SDG 2 by promoting better hygiene practices, which can contribute to food safety and reduce foodborne illnesses. By enhancing hand hygiene, especially in food handling environments such as restaurants, hotels, and households, the PAHW helps prevent contamination and improves food security. This can lead to reduced food losses and improved nutritional outcomes, particularly in communities where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. However, while the PAHW plays a supportive role in food safety, its direct impact on addressing the root causes of hunger, such as food availability and access, is indirect and context-dependent.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) significantly contributes to SDG 3 by promoting good health and well-being through improved hand hygiene practices. By providing a convenient and hygienic way to wash hands, especially in environments with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities, the PAHW helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This includes respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and other illnesses transmitted through contaminated hands. Promoting regular handwashing with the PAHW can reduce healthcare-associated infections in hospitals, protect vulnerable populations such as children and elderly in care facilities, and enhance overall public health outcomes. Therefore, the PAHW supports the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) project can contribute to Quality Education by promoting hygiene practices in educational settings. By ensuring access to clean and convenient handwashing facilities, especially in schools and educational institutions, the project helps create a healthier environment conducive to learning. Improved hygiene reduces absenteeism due to preventable illnesses, enhances overall well-being, and supports educational outcomes. Furthermore, educational initiatives can be integrated into community outreach programs to educate students and families about the importance of hand hygiene, thereby fostering a culture of health and hygiene from an early age. These efforts align with SDG 4's aim to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The PAHW project can indirectly contribute to Gender Equality by promoting equal access to clean and hygienic facilities. In many contexts, women and girls bear a disproportionate burden in accessing sanitation facilities, which can affect their health, dignity, and educational or economic opportunities. By providing convenient and private handwashing facilities, especially in public spaces and educational institutions, the PAHW project helps create a more equitable environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can maintain proper hygiene with dignity and without barriers. Moreover, initiatives to promote hygiene awareness and education can be tailored to address specific needs and challenges faced by women and girls, further supporting Gender Equality efforts. While the project itself may not directly address all aspects of gender disparities, its contribution to improving access to essential hygiene facilities can positively impact gender norms and inequalities related to health

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) strongly contributes to SDG 6 by promoting clean water and sanitation through its efficient use of water and enhancement of hygiene practices. By providing a controlled amount of water for handwashing, the PAHW minimizes wastage and supports water conservation efforts. This is crucial in regions facing water scarcity or lacking adequate sanitation infrastructure. Additionally, the PAHW improves sanitation by ensuring hands are cleaned effectively, reducing the spread of waterborne diseases linked to poor hygiene. By enhancing access to sanitation facilities in various settings such as healthcare facilities, schools, public spaces, and households, the PAHW supports the broader goals of SDG 6 to achieve universal access to clean water and sanitation for all.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

The PAHW project primarily focuses on improving hand hygiene through innovative technology rather than directly addressing issues related to energy affordability or cleanliness. While the project may require energy for its operational needs, its impact on energy consumption or promoting clean energy sources is not explicitly central to its mission. However, efforts can be made during product development and manufacturing to minimize energy consumption and explore renewable energy options where feasible. Overall, while the PAHW project indirectly supports environmental sustainability through its hygiene benefits, its direct contribution to Affordable and Clean Energy is limited.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The PAHW project contributes significantly to Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating employment opportunities across various sectors. It stimulates economic activity through manufacturing, distribution, sales, and maintenance of PAHW units, thereby generating jobs directly within the company and indirectly through supply chains and service providers. Furthermore, the project supports sustainable economic growth by enhancing hygiene standards, which can lead to healthier work environments and reduced absenteeism. This, in turn, improves productivity and economic outcomes for businesses and communities. Moreover, as the PAHW project expands its market reach and operations, it contributes to skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the hygiene and sanitation sector. These factors collectively contribute to achieving SDG 8, which aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) strongly advances SDG 9 by innovating hygiene technology and enhancing infrastructure across sectors. It integrates sensors for efficient water use, promoting health and sustainability in healthcare, hospitality, education, and public spaces. PAHW supports economic growth through job creation and entrepreneurship in hygiene sectors, demonstrating how innovation can drive sustainable development in industry and infrastructure.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The PAHW project contributes to Reduced Inequalities by promoting equal access to hygienic facilities, which is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing disparities in sanitation access. In many contexts, marginalized communities, including those in rural areas or informal settlements, face challenges in accessing clean water and sanitation facilities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

The PAHW project contributes significantly to Sustainable Cities and Communities by improving public health and hygiene within urban and community settings. Access to clean and convenient handwashing facilities is essential for promoting health and preventing the spread of diseases in densely populated areas.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) significantly contributes to SDG 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production practices. It achieves this by optimizing water usage through its automated system, reducing waste from single-use materials like paper towels, and enhancing product longevity through durable design. By integrating modern technology, the PAHW supports efficient resource management in hygiene practices and educates communities about sustainable consumption behaviors, thereby fostering a more environmentally conscious approach to hand hygiene across diverse settings.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

4

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

The PAHW project primarily focuses on improving hygiene through innovative handwashing solutions rather than directly addressing climate-related issues. While the project may indirectly promote water conservation and energy efficiency in its operations, its impact on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions or promoting renewable energy sources is limited. However, efforts can be made to integrate sustainable practices in manufacturing and operations to minimize environmental footprint where feasible. Overall, while the PAHW project supports public health and hygiene, its direct contribution to Climate Action remains modest.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

The PAHW project primarily focuses on improving hand hygiene and sanitation practices in indoor and urban settings, rather than directly impacting marine or aquatic ecosystems. While the project indirectly promotes water conservation and responsible water use, its scope and focus do not extend to marine environments or biodiversity conservation below water. Efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability could be integrated into the project's lifecycle and operational practices, but its direct contribution to Life Below Water is limited compared to initiatives specifically targeting marine conservation and ecosystem preservation.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

The PAHW project contributes to Life on Land by promoting improved hygiene practices and reducing the spread of diseases that can affect terrestrial ecosystems. By providing convenient and accessible handwashing facilities in public spaces, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, the project helps mitigate health risks that can impact both human populations and wildlife in urban and rural areas.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

The PAHW project primarily focuses on improving hygiene and sanitation practices through innovative technology. While promoting hygiene can indirectly contribute to public health and social stability, its direct impact on peacebuilding, justice, or institutional strength is limited.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) strongly supports SDG 17 by fostering partnerships and collaborations across sectors. It engages public-private partnerships to scale up adoption, leveraging expertise and resources for widespread implementation. Through multi-stakeholder collaborations, it addresses diverse hygiene challenges in healthcare, education, and public spaces. The PAHW contributes to global initiatives for hygiene improvement, while supporting local capacity building and innovation. By promoting collective action, it advances sustainable development goals through shared responsibility and innovation.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

6

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

6

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

5

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

4

05.08 Justification

The Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW) is an innovative solution that introduces new technology to improve hygiene practices. It addresses a clear market need for efficient, automated handwashing systems, offering significant advancements over traditional methods. By leveraging automation and sensor technology, the PAHW enhances user experience and ensures effective hygiene outcomes while conserving water—a crucial feature lacking in many existing solutions. This innovation positions the PAHW as not just an improvement on existing products, but as a response to a previously unmet demand for sustainable, convenient hand hygiene solutions across various sectors.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Given the specifics of the Portable Automatic Hand Washer (PAHW), potential competitors might include: Traditional Handwashing Methods: Basic handwashing facilities that rely on manual operation and may not offer automated features or water efficiency. Portable Hand Sanitizer Stations: Devices that dispense hand sanitizer rather than water, which may not provide the same level of cleanliness as water-based washing. Automated Handwashing Stations: Similar automated systems that focus on hygiene but may differ in design, efficiency, or technological features. What sets the PAHW apart includes its dual functionality as both a handwashing and liquid dispensing unit

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

promoting the role of female entrepreneurs is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion in every business setup. our Initiatives will include advocating for equal opportunities, supporting female-led startups through mentorship or funding, hosting networking events, and highlighting success stories of female entrepreneurs