Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has charged a customer over GHS 74,000 for illegally reconnecting to its water distribution network. The customer, Mr. Sabare Dramani Isaah, rejoined the system in Botwe after being disconnected for more than three months.
This enforcement action is part of GWL’s ongoing Revenue Enhancement Initiative. The initiative aims to reduce commercial water losses and boost revenue collection across the country. It targets illegal connections, meter tampering, and other unauthorised activities that deplete the company's resources.
This incident reflects a broader challenge for state-owned enterprises in Ghana regarding revenue protection and service sustainability. Data from the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC) often highlights commercial losses as a significant factor in utility tariff adjustments. This crackdown aligns with efforts to ensure utilities can cover operational costs and invest in infrastructure.
GWL Managing Director Mr. Adam Mutawakilu launched the Revenue Enhancement Initiative in February 2026. He described the programme as a crucial step for the company's financial transformation. He emphasised that protecting revenue is vital for maintaining and expanding water supply services nationwide.
The detection occurred on Monday, June 15, 2026, during a routine follow-up by the Revenue Enhancement Team. They found Mr. Isaah had illegally reconnected and created an additional service line without permission. Officials from the Accra Northeast District immediately disconnected the illegal connection and lodged a complaint with the Ogbojo Police Station. After an initial summons went unheeded, the matter escalated on Wednesday, June 17, with regional officials joining the district team. Police subsequently granted Mr. Isaah enquiry bail in the sum of GHS 80,000, pending further investigation into the matter.
This enforcement forms part of a growing number of actions under the initiative. Ten Revenue Enhancement Teams have been set up nationwide to strengthen monitoring and improve revenue collection. GWL states that illegal connections and other unauthorised practices deprive it of resources for maintenance and expansion. The company has warned customers to regularise their connections to avoid penalties. GWL will continue cooperating with law enforcement to prosecute offenders and protect public resources. This sustained effort will likely lead to more such charges and improved revenue for the utility provider.