Authorities in Cape Coast have intensified efforts to address ongoing water supply challenges following a high-level stakeholder meeting between the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly and Ghana Water Limited (GWL).

The meeting, convened on Monday, March 30, 2026, by the Mayor of Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, provided a platform for both parties to assess operational challenges and outline practical, collaborative solutions to improve water delivery across the metropolis.

During the discussions, the Mayor expressed concern over prolonged water shortages affecting several communities, including Fourth Ridge, Cape Coast Technical University, University of Cape Coast, Greenhill, Ankaful, and Gracehill. He highlighted growing public frustration, concerns over billing in the absence of water supply, and limited communication from GWL regarding service disruptions.

In response, GWL management acknowledged the concerns and apologised to residents for the inconvenience. They attributed the challenges to a combination of factors, including pollution of source water, reduced production capacity, treatment limitations, and frequent power outages from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), which disrupt operations and affect reservoir systems.

The company also cited infrastructure constraints such as encroachment on its lands, which hinders pipeline upgrades, as well as weak inter-agency coordination that leads to service disruptions during road construction and other public works.

On billing concerns, GWL clarified that charges are based on monthly meter readings, noting that where no water is supplied, consumption should reflect zero. However, it acknowledged that irregular supply patterns and arrears often create confusion among consumers, underscoring the need for enhanced public education.

Officials of the Assembly called for improved communication, especially during operational challenges, to enable residents to plan effectively and reduce public dissatisfaction. They also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration with ECG and proposed partnerships with local universities to develop innovative solutions for detecting underground leakages and reducing water loss.

Reaffirming his commitment, Hon. Arthur assured GWL of the Assembly’s full support, particularly in addressing encroachment issues and strengthening coordination with other state agencies. He encouraged the utility provider to engage the Assembly proactively whenever assistance is required.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about improved collaboration. GWL described the engagement as fruitful, while the Mayor urged the company to prioritise effective communication to restore public confidence and enhance service delivery.