Ghana’s Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Mr. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has tasked the newly inaugurated Board of Directors of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) with delivering transformative reforms in the water utility sector, including cutting non-revenue water (NRW) from over 50% to 30% by 2028.
The nine-member board, chaired by Mr. Eric J. Biliguo Adama, was sworn in during a ceremony in Accra, where the Minister emphasized that the board’s mandate must go beyond traditional oversight and focus on strategic transformation, innovation, and measurable public impact.
“This is not just about governance—it is about securing the health and future of our people,” Mr. Adjei said. “Your KPIs must reflect urgency: reduce NRW, raise urban coverage to 95%, and ensure 98% revenue efficiency.”
Ghana’s growing urban population—now over 56%—has strained the country’s aging water infrastructure. The Minister highlighted issues including frequent pipe bursts, low capital investment, and deteriorating water quality as persistent challenges requiring bold leadership.
He warned against complacency and urged the new board to adopt a culture of integrity, accountability, and forward-thinking governance. In collaboration with the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), the board will be held to rigorous performance targets.
Other members of the board include the Acting GWL Managing Director, Mr. Adam Mutawakilu, alongside Dr. Hadisu Alhassan (workers’ representative), Prof. Afishata Mohammed Abujaja, Alhaji Abu Mahama, Mr. Ibrahim Abdul Jalil, Agbesi Nutsu, Prof. Jasper A. Ayelazuno, and Mr. Mathias Kwame Ntow.
Board Chairman Mr. Adama expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for the appointment and pledged that the board would fully align with the Minister’s outlined vision.
“We recognise the scale of the task ahead, and we are ready,” he said. “We will work closely with management to enhance operational efficiency, reduce water losses, and deliver safe, reliable water to more Ghanaians.”
The new board’s tenure begins at a time when water is increasingly seen as a strategic resource, vital not just for health but for economic and national development. The emphasis, according to the Minister, is now on results, reform, and public trust.
