Ghana Water Limited to replace ageing pumps and pipelines nationwide

The Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Adam Mutawakilu, has announced a nationwide programme to replace deteriorating water infrastructure, including pumps and pipelines, to address distribution losses and improve service reliability. Speaking during an appearance before the Public Accounts Committee on October 13, Mr. Mutawakilu highlighted a strategic shift toward maintaining and upgrading existing assets rather than expanding the network into new areas. This decision is based on the assessment that unresolved supply challenges could worsen if the company prioritises expansion over the integrity of its current distribution systems.

The utility has identified several priority areas for these upgrades, most notably the Kpong Water Treatment Plant in the Eastern Region, where ageing pumps are slated for replacement. The programme will also target dilapidated pipelines in communities such as Abetifi and its surrounding areas. Mr. Mutawakilu emphasised that addressing current infrastructure failures is essential to resolving persistent customer complaints and that extending networks without these repairs would only compound reliability issues.

In preparation for the nationwide upgrade, GWL halted all new pipeline extensions in August. All regional offices have been directed to compile and submit comprehensive lists of old and damaged pipelines by the end of October. Once these submissions are reviewed, specific replacement projects will be categorised and presented to the company's board for final approval and budget allocation. This structured approach is intended to ensure that the most critical infrastructure gaps are addressed systematically across the country.

The initiative aims to curb the high rate of non-revenue water—water that is produced but lost due to leaks and bursts—which has historically hampered the utility's operational efficiency. By focusing on the structural integrity of the existing distribution network, GWL intends to ensure that current consumers receive a more consistent and reliable water supply before the company resumes territorial expansion to unserved communities.