For decades, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has battled inefficiencies, financial struggles, and a growing crisis in water supply. Despite restructuring efforts and new leadership appointments, issues like water rationing, aging infrastructure, and high levels of non-revenue water have persisted.
Now, with Adam Mutawakilu stepping in as Acting Managing Director, the question remains, can he bring the turnaround GWL desperately needs?
A Company with a Troubled Past
GWL’s journey has been anything but smooth. Originally established as the Ghana Water and Sewerage Corporation in 1965, it was restructured into Ghana Water Company Limited in 1999 to improve efficiency.
Yet, over the years, financial mismanagement, leaking pipelines, and increasing urban demand have left the company struggling to deliver consistent water supply.
Today, nearly 50% of treated water is lost due to illegal connections and outdated systems, while many communities, urban and rural, continue to suffer from erratic supply.
A New Leader, A New Approach?
Unlike previous appointees with technical expertise in water management, Hon. Mutawakilu comes from a different background, finance, governance, and energy policy. Aware of this, he openly admits that his expertise is not in water management, but he believes his governance and financial skills will be key to solving GWL’s long-standing challenges.
“I may not have an extensive background in water management, but I bring experience in energy, finance, and governance, and I am eager to learn from and work with the dedicated professionals at Ghana Water Limited.” he stated
Mutawakilu has served as MP for Damongo (2013–2020), held the role of Ranking Member on the Mines and Energy Committee, and was District Chief Executive for West Gonja. His academic background, which includes degrees in Development Finance, Energy Economics, and Petroleum Studies, positions him as a leader focused on structural and financial reforms rather than just technical fixes.
The Road Ahead
His first major challenge is tackling GWL’s worsening financial state. The company has long depended on government bailouts to stay afloat, but that is not a sustainable model. Mutawakilu must also address the water loss crisis, where nearly half of the treated water never reaches consumers. Without fixing these systemic inefficiencies, expanding access to clean water will remain a distant goal.
He recognizes that success will depend on collaboration, stating that the efforts of both management and staff will be crucial in ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing clean water.
“The collective efforts of management and staff will be crucial in achieving the vision of the President and ensuring that no community is left behind when it comes to access to potable water.”
