Accra: Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, has sworn into office the Governing Board for the Water Resources Commission. The Board is tasked with ensuring the sustainable management, equitable distribution, and wise protection of water resources in the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Board of Directors comprises members from various key organizations including the Volta River Authority, Ghana Water Company, Safe Water Network, Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana Meteorological Agency, Ghana Irrigation Development Authority, Water Resources Commission, and the Ministry itself. The members are Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, Mr Christian Selorm Kwadwo Siawor, Mr Joseph Yaw Owusu-Ansah, Mr Kwabena Asare Gyasi-Duku, Mr Abdul Noor Wahab, Mr James K. Ashaley, Professor Mike Yaw Osei-Atweneboana, Mr Charles Bredu Badoo, Madam Jewel Esi Kudjawu, Mrs Valerie Fumey Nassah, Mr Seidu Mahama Alidu, Okogyeman Kweku Gyamprah III, Nana Amponsah Kwaa IV, and Nana Nteboa Pra IV.
Mr Adjei emphasized that water resources have evolved beyond being merely a consumable utility; they are now critical drivers of economic growth, instruments of peace or conflict, and indicators of ecological integrity. He highlighted the urgent and complex challenges facing Ghana, such as climate variability, erratic rainfall, droughts, and floods, which threaten the nation's water security, social fabric, and economic prospects.
The Minister noted alarming trends, including a reported 20 percent reduction in dry season flows by the Volta River Basin Authority, pollution from illegal mining activities, and unsustainable land use practices affecting over 60 percent of river catchments. These issues, along with inadequate enforcement of regulations, overlapping institutional mandates, and limited resources, have compounded challenges in managing the country's water resources.
Mr Adjei urged the Board to provide strategic oversight, ensuring the Commission's operations align with national goals, promote transparent governance, and enhance institutional coordination. He also called for advocacy of policy reforms, capacity building, and support for climate resilience and ecosystem-based adaptation approaches.
Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, the Paramount Chief of Abease Traditional Area and Chairperson for the Board, assured that the Board would work with humility, purpose, and commitment to regulate and manage Ghana's water resources. He emphasized the importance of river basin protection, policy reforms, data-driven decision making, and public awareness on responsible water usage.
The Board pledged to serve with integrity and diligence, calling on all stakeholders to take responsible actions around water bodies to safeguard the country's water resources for future generations.
