An acute water shortage has gripped the Greater Kumasi Metropolis, leaving residents scrambling for water for domestic and commercial purposes. The crisis follows the suspension of services by Ghana Water Limited workers in protest over the demolition of properties they claim to own.
Taps in numerous homes across the metropolis have run dry for three consecutive days. Residents in areas such as Atonsu have resorted to fetching water from wells and underground sources.
“It hasn’t been easy searching for water in the last few days,” said Akwasi Addai, who traveled to a distant well to fetch water for household use.
Food vendors, heavily reliant on water for their operations, are also bearing the brunt of the shortage. “We need the water for washing yams and cooking for customers. This makes our work clean and neat,” lamented Sarah, a yam vendor.
The shortage stems from a standoff between Ghana Water Limited and local authorities over what the utility company describes as the “unlawful” demolition of fences at residences occupied by their senior managers. The disputed properties, located in the Ridge Residential Area, are tied to a broader land development project overseen by private developers under arrangements with the Asantehene.
Emmanuel Okpoti, Vice Chair of the Senior Staff Association of Ghana Water Limited in Ashanti, emphasized that the affected houses are critical for effective water supply operations. “If we give in, it means they will take away all of our facilities. How can we supply water when we don’t have the opportunity to expand?” he questioned.
As the impasse continues, residents are appealing for an urgent resolution to alleviate the hardships caused by the water shortage, particularly as the dry season exacerbates the demand. “We are pleading with them to resolve their issues so we can get water for our daily chores,” said Derrick, a barber at Atonsu.
For now, the struggle for water remains an unwelcome reality for the people of Greater Kumasi.