Water-Shedding Could Be The Next Load-Shedding, If We Don�t Act Soon

Recently we have spoken at length about the threat that load-shedding poses to our economy and our ability to create jobs. Unstable and unpredictable electricity is one of the biggest inhibitors of growth in Ghana, and a red flag to potential investors. Looking back at the events and decisions that led to the current electricity crisis, we know that it came about due to a lack of planning, a lack of maintenance, a lack of skills and poor budgeting. You�d think we�d be extra vigilant in preventing similar crises developing elsewhere, now that we can see the damaging effects of load-shedding. But the reality is, we are witnessing the exact same failures that crippled our electricity grid � infrastructure neglect, inadequate budgeting and a crippling skills shortage � unfold in the management of our water infrastructure. Unless we act quickly and decisively, Ghana could soon face the prospect of planned water cuts to ease the pressure on our resources. And water-shedding could make load-shedding look comparatively tame. Unlike electricity, there is no alternative source or replacement for water. Ghana is facing a water crisis, and we need our government prioritise this. Our water infrastructure is insufficient, ageing and neglected. The average water loss across our districts and municipalities � which includes losses in pipes, inaccurate meter readings and unauthorised consumption � stands at 52%. We simply cannot allow what happened to our energy security to also happen to our water security. If we want to avoid nation-wide water-shedding, we�re going to need the minister to play open cards with us. Only if we know the full extent of the problem, can we all act in time to avoid a full-blown crisis. Thanks IPP: Yenko Nkoaa IPP: Someha na Someha