Water and Gender Equality: A Crucial Nexus Highlighted in Volta Region Outreach
Ghana Water Limited’s Volta Region branch recently marked World Water Day with a significant educational initiative at the Kpeve Headworks in the South Dayi District. The event, held on Wednesday, March 25, centred on the critical connection between accessible clean water and the advancement of gender equality, aligning with the global theme, “Water and Gender: Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.”
The outreach programme successfully brought together students from several local educational institutions: Holy Spirit Preparatory School, Kpeve Model School, Kpeve Tornu Junior High School, and Tsokpokope Primary and JHS. This provided a valuable opportunity for young minds to understand the complexities and importance of water management.
A key component of the celebration involved a guided tour of the water treatment facility. Students were given an in-depth look at the entire water production process, from the initial intake of raw water to its comprehensive treatment, secure storage, and eventual distribution to communities. This hands-on experience offered a practical perspective on the journey of their daily drinking water.
Mr. Emmanuel Johnson, the Volta Regional Chief Manager of Ghana Water Limited, addressed the students, emphasizing that World Water Day, observed annually on March 22, serves as a vital reminder of water’s indispensable role in sustaining life. He underscored that the protection of this precious resource is a collective responsibility.
Mr. Johnson elaborated on the significance of this year’s theme, highlighting how water scarcity disproportionately burdens women and girls, particularly in rural areas. He explained that these individuals often dedicate substantial amounts of time and effort to fetching water, a task that limits their opportunities.
“When communities have reliable access to safe water, it frees women and girls to pursue education, careers, and leadership roles,” Mr. Johnson stated. “Improving water services is not only about infrastructure; it is about dignity, health, and equality.” He further noted that the regional office had intentionally rescheduled the event from the actual World Water Day, which coincided with Eid holidays, to ensure maximum student participation and educational benefit.
He reiterated that water remains fundamental to human health, societal development, and economic progress. Access to safe water, he stressed, significantly reduces the prevalence of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea. Furthermore, adequate water supply is crucial for supporting various economic activities, facilitating education, and driving industrial growth.
“Water is both an economic and social good,” Mr. Johnson remarked. “While it requires significant investment to treat and distribute, our mission goes beyond profit to ensure that every community has access to safe and reliable water.”
The Kpeve Water Treatment Plant, he explained, draws raw water from the Volta River. This water then undergoes a series of rigorous treatment processes, including filtration and disinfection, along with pH adjustment, before being pumped to serve communities like Ho, Kpeve, Have, and Peki. The Volta Region, through its multiple water systems, produces millions of litres of treated water daily, a feat that necessitates continuous investment in infrastructure, the development of skilled personnel, and ongoing maintenance.
However, Mr. Johnson also sounded a serious note of caution regarding the persistent threats to water security. He identified pollution from illegal mining activities, indiscriminate waste disposal, the use of agricultural chemicals, and poor sanitation practices as major contributors to the degradation of water resources.
He also expressed concern over encroachment on lands surrounding water facilities. Construction activities near water treatment plants, he warned, can compromise water quality, impede essential infrastructure maintenance, and hinder future expansion plans. “These developments increase operational risks and discourage further investment in water systems,” he cautioned.
In light of these challenges, Mr. Johnson urged the students to actively contribute to the protection of water resources. He encouraged them to refrain from littering, practice water conservation in their daily lives, and educate their peers and families about the importance of environmental stewardship. “Every drop of water we treat requires energy, chemicals, and expertise. We must not take it for granted,” he added.
Mr. Eric Avornyo, the Kpeve Station Manager, guided the students through the technical intricacies of the facility. He provided detailed explanations of the raw water abstraction process, the use of chemicals like hypochlorite for disinfection and lime for pH adjustment, as well as the mechanics of the filtration and distribution systems. The interactive session allowed students to pose questions, gaining a practical understanding of how safe drinking water is produced and delivered to their homes.
Mr. Emmanuel Ankrah, the Assembly Member for Kpeve New Town, echoed the sentiments regarding the importance of water access as a catalyst for social equity. “Water is life, but it is also a gender issue,” he stated. “When access improves, girls stay in school, women engage in economic activities, and communities thrive. Where water flows, equality grows.” He advocated for increased investment in water infrastructure and for more inclusive decision-making processes that empower women in water management initiatives.
The event concluded with a strong call to action for all citizens. Participants were urged to actively protect water sources, respect the designated buffer zones around water infrastructure, and utilize water responsibly to ensure its sustainability for future generations.
To further facilitate responsible water usage and payment, participants were also informed about convenient methods for settling their water bills. These include using the dedicated Water App or the *1010# short code, allowing customers to pay from the comfort of their homes.
Information obtained through the Ghana News Agency also revealed that Ghana Water Limited is taking enforcement measures to ensure compliance with payment obligations. Customers who persistently default on their bills are being taken to court as part of broader efforts to maintain service delivery standards and ensure the financial sustainability of water systems.
