Water theft has become a growing concern in Ghana, posing significant challenges to revenue collection, infrastructure sustainability, and equitable service delivery. Ghana Water Limited (GWL), the nation's primary water utility provider, is intensifying efforts to address these issues through a combination of enforcement, community engagement, and legal action.
Rising Incidents of Water Theft and Meter Stealing
Since the beginning of 2025, GWL has reported thousands of cases of stolen water meters nationwide. This alarming trend has compounded the challenges posed by unauthorized water connections and theft activities such as bypassing water meters, direct tapping into pipelines, and using inline pumping equipment. Between the last quarter of 2024 and the first half of 2025, these illegal activities have surged, leading to significant losses in revenue and disruptions in service delivery.
In the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area alone, over 2,700 illegal connections were uncovered within this period. These included unauthorized service lines, bypassed customer meters, and reconnections made after lawful disconnections for nonpayment. One notable case at Power Land near Ritz Junction on Agbogba Road revealed a property with three service lines, only one of which had a meter. The other two lines supplied tanker operators, circumventing the billing system entirely. The setup included concealed underground reservoirs, further highlighting the extent of the issue.
Dr. Hadisu Alhassan, Regional Production Manager for the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area, emphasized that such illegal connections for commercial gain place an undue burden on the water network. He commended GWL Board Chairman Eric Biliguo Adama for personally leading the inspection that uncovered this case.
Legal Actions Across Regions
GWL has adopted a multi-regional enforcement strategy to combat water theft. In Accra West, over 800 users who failed to regularize their service during a grace period are now facing legal action. Similarly, in Accra East, bypassed meters and unauthorized extensions have led to service interruptions and difficulties in planning water distribution effectively.
In the Ashanti Region, five individuals were arrested for unlawfully tapping into pipelines in areas such as DeNyame, Dakodwom, Kwadaso Estate, and Santasi Apire. The culprits were surcharged, and monies were successfully recovered. Meanwhile, in Tamale, a 50-year-old businessman was prosecuted for installing inline pumps on GWL pipelines. The Circuit Court fined him GH¢3,600 or sentenced him to 12 months in prison if he failed to pay. He was also required to sign a bond to maintain good behavior.
Balancing Enforcement with Education
GWL Managing Director Adam Mutawakilu emphasized the company's balanced approach to addressing water theft. Before resorting to legal action, GWL issues notices, extends grace periods, and educates the public on proper procedures for accessing water services. However, when individuals persist in illegal practices despite these measures, legal enforcement becomes necessary.
“The law is applied only when all other options have been exhausted,” Mr. Mutawakilu stated. “Our goal is not just punitive but also corrective.”
Community Partnerships and Incentives for Whistleblowers
To enhance its enforcement efforts, GWL is exploring community-based partnerships in areas identified as hotspots for water theft. As part of this initiative, whistleblowers who provide credible information on illegal water activities are entitled to 10% of the amount recovered from offenders. This incentive aims to foster community involvement in combating water theft while promoting accountability.
A Call to Action
Water theft undermines the sustainability of Ghana's water infrastructure and disrupts equitable access to this vital resource. As GWL continues its efforts to address these challenges through enforcement and community engagement, it calls on all stakeholders — including customers, local authorities, and community members — to support its initiatives. By working together, Ghana can ensure fair and reliable water service delivery for all.
Ghana Water Limited remains committed to safeguarding its operations and ensuring that every drop counts toward building a sustainable future.
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Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
