Housing Ministry signs MoU for water exploration in Ghana

The Ministry of Works, Housing, and Water Resources has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with S.E.D.A Farminc Ghana Limited. This Czech company will provide technical cooperation for water exploration in Ghana.

The company will use technology to map groundwater areas. This will help agencies address water supply challenges in rural and peri-urban communities.

The project will start in the Northern Region. Cities like Tamale, Tumu, Wa, and Damongo will benefit from the first phase.

This cooperation aims to develop joint projects and enhance groundwater resources. It also focuses on capacity building and technology transfer.

Minister Kenneth Gilbert Adjei stated that the MoU would improve water service delivery across Ghana. He called it a structured collaboration for strengthening the water sector.

“This is a significant milestone,” he said. “We seek practical solutions for safe and reliable water supply.”

Mr. Adjei noted that the sector faces many challenges. These include limited infrastructure, climate change impacts, inefficient systems, and financial shortfalls.

He emphasized that government cannot solve these issues alone. Partnerships like this one are crucial for progress.

The Minister pointed out that Ghana's groundwater potential is under-explored. Many areas are poorly mapped or over-exploited without proper recharge.

“This creates an unsustainable situation,” he warned. It threatens long-term viability in drought-prone zones.

Through this partnership, they aim to conduct comprehensive groundwater mapping. They plan to establish robust data systems for monitoring quality and yield.

Mr. Adjei added that better data would support planning and drilling efficiency. Reliable mapping is essential for lasting access to water in hard-to-reach areas.

He mentioned exploring blended financing options as well. This includes concessional loans, donor support, climate funds, and private capital mobilization.

“We believe S.E.D.A Farminc’s networks can help attract funding,” he said. The goal is to develop viable project proposals for impactful water projects.

Mr. Adjei stressed the need for sustainable maintenance of water infrastructure. Innovative financing models like Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) should be part of their strategy.

Martin Habart, CEO of SEDA Africa Group, spoke about continuing their work in Eastern Region. They previously established a water treatment plant there.

He mentioned plans to set up a training center in Accra for Ghanaians. A technical taskforce team will also support the Ministry and key agencies like Ghana Water Company Limited.

“The team will provide technical advice on all projects,” Mr. Habart stated. He assured the Ministry they would bring experts to help solve water challenges while attracting investors and donors.

The signing ceremony was attended by Czech Ambassador Pavel Bilek along with SEDA Africa representatives.