Only 48% of produced water gets to final consumer – GWL

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has raised concerns about the significant amount of water lost within its distribution system. According to the company, only 48 percent of the water produced actually reaches consumers’ homes, while the remaining 52 percent is lost due to various issues.

These issues include pipeline leaks, illegal connections, and inefficiencies in the distribution infrastructure. The acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Water Limited, Adam Mutawakilu, addressed these pressing issues at a forum held in Accra.

According to Mr. Mutawakilu, the issue of non-revenue water has become a major challenge for the company. Non-revenue water refers to water that is produced but does not generate revenue due to system losses. As of the end of December 2024, Ghana Water Limited recorded an alarming 52 percent non-revenue water rate.

Mr. Mutawakilu stated, “Furthermore, a high level of water loss due to leakage in pipes, illegal connections and inefficient distribution systems continues to circumvent water loss before it even reaches consumers. As at the end of December 2024, non-revenue water was 52 percent. So that means the moment we produce water and dispatch, only 48 percent gets to customers.”

Ghana aims to provide sustainable water and basic sanitation for all by 2025. However, reducing losses from non-revenue water remains a significant challenge. The World Bank has been working with Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to address this issue through performance-based contracts.