By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has emphassed that the provision of clean water is a fundamental human right that transcends simple biological necessity.
According to him, even though water is essential for health, food security, economic productivity, environmental sustainability, and human dignity, millions of people around the world still struggle daily to access safe and reliable water.
Addressing participants at the National Commemoration of the 2026 World Water Day (WWD), held at the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, Accra, on Tuesday March 24, 2026, Mr. Gilbert Adjei explained that when water sources are far away or unsafe, the burden is not only physical; it also limits opportunities for education, economic empowerment, and social participation.
He said the theme for the 2026 WWD commemoration, “Water and Gender,” was both timely and significant. And thus invited stakeholders as well as the general public to reflect on the deep connections between water access, gender equality, and sustainable development.
“The current situation challenges us to examine how water policies, programmes, and investments can better address the realities faced by women, men, girls, and boys in our communities.”
In many developing countries, including parts of Ghana, the responsibility for fetching water often falls disproportionately on women and girls. Every day, countless women and young girls walk long distances in search of water for their households.
This task consumes valuable time and energy, and time that could otherwise be spent in school, at work, or participating in community leadership.
When water is far away or unsafe, the burden is not only physical; it also limits opportunities for education, economic empowerment, and social participation.
The theme “Water and Gender” therefore calls our attention to a simple but powerful truth: improving water access is not only a development issue; it is also a gender equality issue.
The Government of Ghana recognizes that sustainable water management must be inclusive and equitable. Women are not only users of water; they are also managers, protectors, and decision-makers in households and communities.
Their voices, experiences, and leadership are therefore essential in shaping effective water policies and services,” the Works and Housing Minister stated.
Mr. Gilbert Adjei maintained that the government, in line with this understanding, continues to implement programmes that expand access to safe drinking water, strengthen sanitation systems, and promote integrated water resource management.
“Through the efforts of the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, the Community Water and Sanitation Agency, Ghana Water Limited, Water Resources Commission, and other stakeholders, we have made significant progress in improving water service delivery across the country.
The government has also prioritized rural water supply, small-town water systems, and the rehabilitation of urban water infrastructure to ensure that no community is left behind.
However, we must acknowledge that challenges remain. Rapid urbanization, population growth, climate variability, pollution of water bodies, and unsustainable land use practices continue to place pressure on our water resources.
These challenges require not only government action but collective responsibility. Traditional authorities, civil society organizations, development partners, the private sector, and community members all have a role to play in protecting our water resources and ensuring equitable access.
As we focus on the intersection of water and gender, there are three key actions that deserve our collective attention.
First, we must ensure that women and girls have equitable access to safe and reliable water services. Access to water close to home reduces the time spent fetching water and allows women and girls to pursue education, productive work, and leadership opportunities.
Second, we must promote the active participation of women in water governance and decision-making. Women’s insights are essential in designing water systems that truly meet the needs of communities.
Third, we must continue to invest in education, innovation, and community awareness to promote responsible water use, protect our rivers and groundwater, and ensure sustainability for future generations.
Let us also remember that water is not only a resource to be used; it is a shared heritage to be protected,” portions of his statement read.
