Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has uncovered 685 illegal water connections within the Greater Accra Region. This operation has led to the recovery of GHS 6.5 million from affected customers.
The company billed these customers a total of GHS 18.5 million for unauthorized water use. GWCL is actively pursuing the remaining GHS 12 million in outstanding payments. This initiative aims to combat widespread water theft and significantly reduce the company's revenue losses.
Illegal consumption accounts for a substantial 78% of Ghana Water's non-revenue water. Physical leakages make up the remaining 22%. This high rate of theft directly impacts GWCL's financial health and its capacity to invest in infrastructure. The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has previously noted that consumers partly bear the cost of these losses through tariffs. Addressing non-revenue water is vital for improving service delivery and ensuring fair pricing for all customers.
Adam Mutawakilu, GWCL's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, confirmed these findings. He stated that the company's National Revenue Enhancement Team, working with National Security, detected these connections. The team has been operational since August 2025, specifically targeting the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (ATMA) region. Mr. Mutawakilu emphasized that tackling theft would help the company recover substantial revenue.
GWCL plans to take legal action against customers who refuse to settle their outstanding debts. This firm stance signals a commitment to enforcing payment and deterring future illegal activities. The company's success in recovering funds will influence its financial performance and future investment capacity. Stakeholders will closely monitor GWCL's progress in reducing non-revenue water and improving its revenue collection efficiency. This effort is critical for Ghana's broader economic stability and public utility management.
The company serves approximately 18.5 million people nationwide. Its ability to generate sufficient revenue is essential for maintaining and expanding water supply infrastructure. Ageing pipelines, some dating back to the 1960s, also contribute to water losses. However, illegal connections represent a more direct and recoverable form of revenue loss. Improving revenue collection can free up funds for necessary infrastructure upgrades. This will ultimately enhance water quality and access for all Ghanaians. The ongoing campaign reflects a broader push for accountability in public service delivery.