Ghana Water Limited to publish names of illegal connection offenders

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced its intention to publish the names of individuals involved in illegal water connections who have failed to report to the company to regularise their status. Stanley Martey, the Director of Communications at GWL, disclosed this during a recent radio interview, explaining that the utility provider is taking firmer action against those bypassing the system. The move comes as the company intensifies its efforts to crack down on water theft, which has contributed significantly to supply challenges across the country.

According to the utility provider, the illegal use of inline suction pumps has become a major concern, particularly in parts of Tema and the Greater Accra Region. These pumps allow individuals to draw water directly from the mains, significantly reducing water pressure for other consumers and often leading to total shortages in neighbouring communities. Martey emphasised that the publication of offenders' names is a precursor to potential prosecution, as the company seeks to deter residents from engaging in activities that undermine the integrity of the water distribution network.

The financial and operational impact of these illegal activities is severe, with GWL reporting that its non-revenue water—water produced but not billed due to theft or leaks—currently stands at approximately 48%. The company has set an ambitious target to reduce this figure to 30% by improving monitoring and enforcing stricter compliance. By addressing these losses, the utility hopes to recover the revenue needed to maintain and expand infrastructure to serve the growing urban population.

GWL has urged residents to cooperate with the company by reporting illegal connections and surrendering voluntarily before their identities are made public. Martey reiterated that the company's ability to provide a stable water supply depends on the collective responsibility of all consumers. The upcoming name-and-shame campaign serves as a final warning to those tampering with national infrastructure, highlighting that such actions carry serious legal consequences and disrupt service for law-abiding citizens.