41 District Managers to be reassigned over illegal connections – GWCL MD

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) is set to reshuffle 41 district managers nationwide by January 15, 2026, following findings that some district offices failed to prevent illegal water connections. The move forms part of the company’s efforts to strengthen discipline, improve oversight, and restore public confidence in its operations.

The Managing Director of GWL, Adam Mutawakilu, disclosed the decision during an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle on Tuesday. The move comes after an internal assessment revealed recurring operational weaknesses in several districts, particularly in addressing unauthorized water connections.

“Any illegal connection has something to do with the staff of Ghana Water Limited. Since this operation started, we have dismissed several staff,” Mr. Mutawakilu said, highlighting the involvement of company personnel in facilitating these activities.

He noted that in May 2025, district managers were given clear performance targets with a six-month deadline to achieve them. “I gave district managers six months to achieve certain targets. I told them that if they did not achieve them, they would be reassigned,” he explained.

Following a nationwide evaluation of all 103 district managers in November 2025, management found that 41 had failed to meet expectations, prompting the upcoming reassignments. Mr. Mutawakilu attributed the underperformance to weak supervision and the inability to enforce discipline at the district level. “The things happening in their areas are clearly their fault. They could not instill the discipline that is needed,” he said.

He further emphasized that investigations into illegal connections often point to internal staff, describing the situation as unacceptable. “Most of the illegal connections trace back to our people,” he added.

The reassignment initiative is part of broader reforms aimed at enhancing accountability, increasing revenue collection, and restoring public trust in Ghana Water Limited. Mr. Mutawakilu stressed that these measures will strengthen operational efficiency and ensure that negligence or collusion within the company is addressed.

As the January 15 deadline approaches, stakeholders and the public are watching closely, hoping the changes will result in fewer illegal water connections and better service delivery nationwide.