Teshie-Nungua Desalination Plant Temporarily Shut Down Over Contractual and Maintenance Challenges

By Samuel Asamoah 

The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced the temporary shutdown of the Teshie-Nungua Desalination Plant, citing unresolved contractual issues and a prolonged lack of critical maintenance needed to sustain efficient and safe operations.

In a statement issued in Accra, the management of GWL explained that the decision became necessary to prevent further deterioration of the facility and to protect public safety. The desalination plant, commissioned to augment potable water supply to Accra’s eastern coastal corridor, has for years provided treated water to thousands of residents in Teshie, Nungua, Spintex, parts of Sakumono, La, and adjoining communities.

The shutdown, which takes immediate effect, is expected to affect domestic and commercial water supply in these areas. However, GWL says contingency measures have been put in place to minimize the impact on consumers.

Among the interim interventions are the rerouting of water from alternative treatment plants and the prioritization of essential service institutions such as hospitals, schools, and health centres to ensure continuity of critical operations.

GWL emphasized its commitment to maintaining a reliable and safe water supply system across the country, expressing regret over the inconvenience caused by the temporary closure. Management further assured the public that active engagements are underway with relevant stakeholders to expedite the resolution of the underlying issues and to restore the plant to full operation as soon as possible.

The company has also pledged transparency throughout the process, stating that regular updates on progress and restoration timelines will be communicated through its official website, social media platforms, mainstream media outlets, and community engagement representatives.

The Teshie-Nungua Desalination Plant, a major infrastructure investment on the Accra coastline, was established to address perennial water shortages in rapidly expanding urban settlements along the eastern stretch of the capital. Its closure raises fresh concerns about the long-term sustainability and management of large-scale public-private water projects in Ghana.