Nana kweku ofori Atta
Security consultant
Citizens across Ghana are raising their voices in frustration as they confront the ongoing water crisis plaguing their communities. With each passing month, households are burdened with high water bills, yet many endure unreliable and unsafe water supplies.
A key concern among Ghanaians is the deteriorating state of the water infrastructure managed by the Ghana Water Company. Decades of neglect and inadequate maintenance have left pipes corroded and damaged, forcing residents to rely on water tanker suppliers for their daily needs. However, doubts persist regarding the safety and quality of the water provided by these tankers, posing serious health risks to consumers.
Compounding the issue is the responsibility placed on citizens to invest in electrical water pumps to maintain water pressure in their homes. This additional financial strain, coupled with inconsistent water availability, further exacerbates the challenges faced by communities across the country.
Amidst these challenges, questions arise about the effectiveness of routine maintenance practices and the chemicals used in water purification processes. Citizens demand transparency regarding the standards upheld by the state in filtering water for consumption. Additionally, there is a pressing need for accountability in the procurement of purification chemicals, as well as the engagement of reliable suppliers to ensure the delivery of safe drinking water to households.
Furthermore, the Galamsey crisis has added to the woes of water contamination in Ghana. Illegal mining activities have severely polluted water bodies, rendering them unfit for human consumption. Addressing this crisis requires urgent action to purify affected water bodies and restore them to safe levels for consumption.
The installation of Ghana Water Company meters in citizens’ homes raises further concerns, particularly in areas where water supply is irregular or insufficient. Many question the purpose of these meters and the justification for monthly charges in light of inadequate service provision.
As Ghanaians continue to grapple with the daily challenges of accessing clean and reliable water, they call upon the government to prioritize the restoration and maintenance of water infrastructure. Transparent accountability measures, effective maintenance practices, and investment in sustainable solutions are essential to ensuring equitable access to safe water for all citizens.
It is imperative for the government to heed the voices of its people and take urgent action to address Ghana’s water crisis. The health, well-being, and dignity of every Ghanaian depend on it.
