Ghana has reiterated its commitment to ensuring universal access to safe water and sanitation, as the country joined continental leaders to deliberate on the African Union’s 2026 Theme of the Year: “Water and Sanitation”.
Speaking on behalf of President Mahama at the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Minister for Water and Sanitation, Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, outlined Ghana’s progress and plans in the sector.
Highlighting international cooperation, Mr Gilbert Adjei announced a 100 million Danish kroner partnership with Denmark and UNICEF to deliver safe drinking water to 100,000 people in low-income urban areas such as Wa and Bolgatanga, including 40,000 children.
The Minister noted that 89.9 per cent of Ghanaians now have access to at least basic water services, placing the country firmly on track to achieve universal basic access by 2030. Safely managed water coverage has also seen steady improvement, reaching 42.9 per cent.
Civil society contributions were also emphasised, with World Vision Ghana’s 2026–2030 WASH Business Plan expected to provide safe water to more than 700,000 people, improved sanitation for 343,000, and hygiene services for 535,000 across 23 districts.
Beyond service delivery, Mr Adjei stated that Ghana would integrate the Africa Water Vision 2063 into its national strategies, scaling up climate-resilient infrastructure, and strengthening transboundary water cooperation.
“Ghana stands ready to contribute to realising the Africa Water Vision 2063, transforming our country into one where every citizen enjoys water security and dignity,” he concluded.
Margaret Adjeley Sowah, ISD
