GWL inaugurates new board to drive sector transformation

Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, has inaugurated a new Board of Directors. Their goal is to make the state utility efficient and accountable in providing safe water nationwide.

At a ceremony in Accra, the Minister swore in the new Board. He described this event as a step toward better governance in the water sector. He emphasized that it was not just an administrative task but a national obligation.

The new Board is chaired by Mr. Eric J. Biliguo Adama, nominated by the President. Other members include Mr. Adam Mutawakilu (Acting Managing Director), Dr. Hadisu Alhassan (Worker’s Representative), and several others.

Mr. Adjei reminded the Board that water is now a strategic economic resource. It is vital for public health, industry, education, and national development. He stated their success would be measured by both financial performance and its impact on lives.

He highlighted challenges in urban water management: ageing infrastructure, high Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels, limited investment, and poor source quality. With over 56% of Ghana's population living in cities, demand for clean water is rising rapidly.

The Minister urged the Board to abandon "business as usual." They should embrace professionalism, transparency, and excellence in performance. “You must lead with vision and act with integrity,” he said.

He mentioned that the Ministry would support them with clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These goals include reducing NRW from 50.55% to 30% by 2028 and increasing urban water coverage to 95%. They also aim to boost revenue collection efficiency to 98%.

Mr. Adjei cautioned against micromanagement of GWL operations. He stressed the importance of strategic oversight and collaboration with management. “Let there be mutual respect and shared commitment,” he added.

He affirmed that strong leadership is essential for effective public administration. The Board must set higher governance standards amid growing scrutiny from citizens regarding public trust.

“Citizens want better value for money,” he noted about natural resources like water being under stress due to climate change and urban growth.

Mr. Eric J. Biliguo Adama expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for his appointment at this critical time for GWL's transformation journey.

He acknowledged the strategic direction provided by the Minister on reducing non-revenue water and improving urban coverage. Mr. Adama pledged full cooperation in achieving KPIs set by the Ministry and SIGA.

“We understand our responsibility,” he said about working closely with management to improve service delivery across Ghana.