Transforming Rural Water Services in Ghana: A Collaborative Approach
On the 26th of March 2024. IRC in collaboration with the Resource Centre Network (RCN) hosted a National Level Learning Alliance Platform (NLLAP) session on the State of the Rural Water Utilization Project (R-WUP) in the Western region of Ghana.
Mohammed Ibrahim Adakar, Director of Planning and Investment at the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) opened the session by sharing the spotlight shone on the Rural Water “Utilization” Project. This project, co-conceptualized by four WASH sector partners – CWSA, Water & Sanitation for Urban Poor, IRC, and Safe Water Network – has been underway for the past 27 months. The primary objective? To transform CWSA into a robust rural water utility service organization. The essence of the project revolves around several key objectives. These include strengthening internal change management within CWSA, enhancing the efficiency of water supply infrastructure, piloting model water systems in the Western region, and fortifying sector coordination. The collaboration of entities such as WSUP, Safe Water Network, and IRC is indispensable in various facets of this ambitious endeavor.
As attendees absorbed the presentations, questions naturally arose regarding the scope and findings of the analysis. It became clear that the mandate primarily focused on mapping facilities, leaving untouched topics such as the impact of “galamsey” on water systems or the reasons behind the disbandment of certain facilities. However, the team expressed a readiness to delve deeper into data disaggregation in the future.
One of the pivotal points of discussion was the safety of water facilities after a decade of operation. Mr. Adakar stated challenges faced in managing water systems, including aging infrastructure and billing issues. Efforts are underway to counter these challenges through the implementation of modernized systems and billing platforms, with a vision for universal access and sustainability in service delivery.
The Country Director of IRC Ghana, Mrs. Vida Duti highlighted the need for improvement in water services despite progress. Nearly 40% of systems are dysfunctional in the WR region, indicating a critical issue of sustainability. Governance is key, with emerging delivery models requiring a re-evaluation of definitions. Private individuals provide 40% of water services due to government limitations, necessitating regulatory mechanisms. While regulation may stifle creativity, it ensures quality, fair pricing, and management of tariffs. Addressing CWSA reforms is crucial, recognizing various sector players and enhancing rural water delivery. The study prompts dialogue on organizing the rural water space for better effectiveness.
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The Chief Director of CWSA Western Region expressed gratitude for the selection of the region for a water project, emphasizing the significance of the region’s contributions to Ghana’s resources. Ongoing projects in Wassa Dunkwa and Adumanso signify the region’s commitment to comprehensively addressing water issues and achieving set targets.
Panel Discussions:
The panel discussion further made clear key points regarding the transformation of CWSA into a utility service provider. Adakar emphasized the need for internal change management, transitioning towards a utility service provider approach. Representatives from Safe Water Network highlighted the potential for revenue generation and operational efficiency improvements, while WSUP stressed the importance of communication and skill development among staff. Funding challenges were acknowledged by IRC, citing uncertainties in CWSA’s evolution and the lack of clear policies.
Central to the discussion was the recognition of the necessity for comprehensive reforms involving various stakeholders beyond CWSA alone. The legal policy backing the transition, the National Community Water and Sanitation Reform Framework, aligned with the National Water Policy, provides a roadmap for this transformation. Integration of private individuals into regulated systems, focusing on efficiency benchmarks, and broadening stakeholder consultations are all vital components of this collaborative effort.
In conclusion, the journey towards transforming rural water services in Ghana is not without its challenges. However, with concerted efforts, inclusive policies, and active involvement of stakeholders, sustainable improvement is not only possible but imminent. The collaborative approach embodied in projects like the Rural Water “Utilization” Project sets a precedent for effective sector-wide transformation, ensuring that the basic human right to clean water is upheld for all citizens of Ghana.