Ghana Water denies allegations of withholding Kwanyako turbidity data

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has rejected allegations that its staff were threatened not to release data on river turbidity and pollution levels.

This follows an alleged video circulating on social media in which JoyNews journalist Evans Mensah claimed that GWL staff had been threatened and that he was denied information at the Kwanyako treatment plant.

In a statement on Monday, August 17, GWL said the claims were untrue and clarified its mandate regarding the collection and management of turbidity data.

The company said its mandate is to treat raw water and supply potable water to urban populations under the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources.

GWL said it conducts internal turbidity tests during treatment and shuts down plants when levels exceed safe thresholds. However, it said it does not hold official data on natural river bodies.

“GWL conducts internal turbidity tests during treatment and shuts down plants when levels exceed safe thresholds. However, GWL does not hold official data on natural river bodies.”

The company also disputed the claim that Mr Mensah visited the Kwanyako treatment plant.

“According to official records, Mr. Evans Mensah did not visit the Kwanyako plant.”

GWL explained that responsibility for managing and monitoring river bodies and holding turbidity data rests with the Water Resources Commission (WRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

“The responsibility for managing and monitoring river bodies and holding turbidity data lies with the Water Resources Commission (WRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).”

The company further rejected the claim that the Presidency had directed it to withhold river turbidity data.

“It is therefore totally untrue that the Presidency has directed GWL to withhold river turbidity data.”

GWL urged the public to distinguish between the respective mandates of GWL, the WRC and the EPA, and advised the public to treat the circulating video with caution.