The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Ministry of Works, Housing, and Water Resources have initiated major reforms in Ghana's water sector.
These reforms aim to introduce a comprehensive regulatory and licensing framework for water service providers. The ultimate goal is to pass a new Clean Drinking Water Services Act for Ghana, addressing widespread issues in water supply.
The current lack of clear regulatory frameworks and a dedicated Clean Drinking Water Services Act has contributed to unreliable water supply and inconsistent service. This reform drive is part of the government's 'Reset Agenda' and responds to growing consumer demand for better services and clearer rules. The changes are expected to improve water access, quality, and affordability for households and businesses nationwide.
Dr. Shafic Suleman, Executive Secretary of the PURC, emphasized the urgency of the new legislation. He stated, “the ‘Reset Agenda’ of the government of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, for Ghana’s water sector calls for urgent passage of comprehensive legislation and updated regulations to address long-standing challenges in service delivery, tariff management, and sector accountability.” This initiative comes as consumers, utility providers, and development partners increasingly demand rules balancing affordability with financial viability.
The proposed framework focuses on four key areas. First, it seeks legal clarity by consolidating overlapping laws and defining clear roles for all stakeholders. This will remove regulatory gaps that currently delay decisions. Second, service standards and accountability will improve with enforceable delivery benchmarks, complaint resolution timelines, and penalties for non-compliance. Third, tariff and financial sustainability will be addressed through predictable, evidence-based tariff-setting rules. These rules protect vulnerable households while allowing utilities to maintain infrastructure and expand access. Finally, data and transparency will increase through mandatory publication of performance data, water quality results, and investment plans, building public trust and enabling informed policy decisions.
The Ministry of Works, Housing, and Water Resources has expressed its support for the PURC's proactive stance. Hon. Keneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister, acknowledged the Commission's efforts in a letter dated June 5, 2026. He welcomed the establishment of progressive regulatory mechanisms to promote operational and economic efficiency. The Minister indicated that the reform agenda is rooted in the National Water Policy, 2024. This policy calls for a comprehensive restructuring of the water sector.
Future steps include establishing an independent institution to regulate the water sector. This institution will implement a licensing regime for various water service provider categories. The new regulatory framework will define governance requirements, establish performance benchmarks, and conduct service audits. This will improve accountability and service delivery across Ghana's water sector. The Ministry has committed to a participatory and consultative approach, working with the PURC and other stakeholders.
Dr. Suleman confirmed that the PURC will collaborate with all stakeholders. This collaboration aims to submit draft legislative proposals to the Ministry of Works, Housing, and Water Resources. Technical working groups, including utilities, civil society, and development partners, will refine the framework. A nationwide public consultation will gather input from consumers and communities before final recommendations are finalized. The Commission will engage Parliament, sector ministries, and donor agencies to fast-track the process. Their goal is the rapid passage of a new Clean Drinking Water Regulatory Act.