GWCL MD rallies Armed Forces for water security push

The Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Adam Mutawakilu, has called for stronger collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces as part of efforts to safeguard the country’s water resources and critical infrastructure.

The call was made during a working visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, William Agyapong, where both institutions explored avenues to deepen cooperation in response to growing concerns over water security in Ghana.

The meeting focused on strengthening the partnership between GWL and the military to protect vital water systems, including treatment plants, pipelines, reservoirs, and other infrastructure essential for the delivery of potable water across the country. Discussions also highlighted the need for coordinated and proactive responses to emerging threats affecting water supply systems.

During the engagement, Mr Mutawakilu emphasised that water is a strategic national resource whose protection extends beyond routine service delivery. He noted that safeguarding water infrastructure is increasingly becoming a matter of national security, particularly in the face of rising challenges such as illegal mining activities near water bodies, vandalism of pipelines, and unauthorised connections.

He stressed that ensuring the safety, sustainability, and equitable distribution of water requires strong collaboration among state institutions, especially between utility providers and security agencies.

The GWL Managing Director described the evolving relationship between Ghana Water Limited and the Ghana Armed Forces as both timely and necessary. According to him, closer cooperation will enhance the protection of water infrastructure and improve the reliability of water supply to households, businesses, and essential public services.

He expressed confidence that such a partnership would help address threats to water systems more effectively while supporting broader national development goals, including public health, industrial growth, and environmental sustainability.

Mr Mutawakilu further indicated that sustained collaboration with security agencies will be critical in ensuring uninterrupted water delivery across the country, particularly in rapidly growing urban centres and vulnerable communities.

He reaffirmed GWL’s commitment to working closely with the military and other key stakeholders, noting that protecting water resources is not only about infrastructure preservation but also about safeguarding livelihoods, promoting economic stability, and enhancing the overall well-being of citizens.

The engagement reflects a broader shift in policy thinking, where water security is increasingly being recognised as a fundamental component of national stability. It also underscores the importance of inter-agency coordination in addressing complex challenges affecting essential services.

As pressures on Ghana’s water systems continue to increase due to population growth, climate variability, and human activities, both institutions are expected to intensify joint efforts to ensure that the country’s water resources remain protected, sustainable, and accessible to all.