Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Mr. Adam Mutawakilu, has assured residents of Ho and its surrounding communities that urgent measures are being implemented to address the ongoing water supply challenges.
Barely a week into office, Mr. Mutawakilu led a team of engineers to inspect the Kpeve Water Intake Point and Treatment Plant, which supplies water to Ho and neighboring districts.
He acknowledged the severity of the crisis, revealing that while a submersible pump had been deployed as an interim measure, it was inadequate in meeting demand.
To provide a medium-term solution, two new pumps have been procured and are expected to arrive in March 2025.
Meanwhile, GWL will collaborate with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and other service providers to supply water to affected communities using water.
Mr. Mutawakilu reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the “Water for All Agenda,” stating that President John Mahama is deeply concerned about the water situation in Ho and remains dedicated to implementing the Ho Water Expansion Project and other regional interventions.
“The expansion of the Kpeve Treatment Plant is non-negotiable as it remains the only long-term solution to meet the growing population’s demand,” he emphasized.
The Kpeve Water Treatment Plant, with an installed capacity of 18,181 cubic metres per day, currently produces only 11,272 cubic metres, far below the 23,580 cubic metres needed to meet demand.
Ho’s population, estimated at 262,000, continues to face significant water supply gaps, affecting households, businesses, and institutions.
To ensure fair and sustainable distribution, GWL has introduced a Demand Management Programme, while plans are underway to complete the Adidome Water Project, which will serve Agotime-Ziope, Adaklu, and parts of Ho.
Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, described the Ho Water Expansion Project as a critical intervention and reiterated the government’s determination to resolve the crisis.
“As part of immediate relief efforts, we will begin supplying water to essential institutions such as hospitals and schools through tankers,” he announced.
He also disclosed plans to organize a Regional Water Dialogue to engage stakeholders in finding lasting solutions to the Volta Region’s water supply challenges.
Togbe Howusu Adzilakle XII, Awafiaga of the Asogli State, and Ametsitsia Adza Komla, spokesperson for the Kpeve Traditional Council, lamented the adverse effects of the water crisis on their communities.
However, they commended GWL for its proactive steps and expressed optimism that the new interventions would lead to a permanent solution.
“Water is life, and that is why SDG 6 focuses on ensuring clean water and sanitation for all,” Mr. Gunu emphasized, urging residents to remain patient as the government and GWL work towards sustainable solutions.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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