President John Dramani Mahama has announced a major intervention aimed at resolving the persistent water challenges in Tamale, promising the delivery of 30 million gallons of water to the metropolis.
Speaking during a public engagement as part of his Resetting Ghana Tour of the Northern Region, the President acknowledged the long standing nature of the crisis and assured residents that comprehensive measures are being implemented to improve supply.
He noted that while successive governments have invested in expanding the existing water system, rapid population growth in Tamale has continued to place pressure on available resources.
President Mahama explained that previous interventions, including Tamale Water Phases One, Two, and Three, were designed to increase supply. However, he indicated that the pace of urban growth has outstripped these improvements.
According to him, the government has already taken steps to improve the efficiency of the existing system by addressing technical challenges within the infrastructure. “Some of the motors were worn out and some had broken down,” he said, adding that repairs and replacements are already underway.
He stated that restoring these components is expected to increase water output by several million gallons, offering immediate relief to residents. He assured the public that the work is nearing completion and that improvements in supply will soon be visible.
Long-Term Solution Through New Water Source
Despite these upgrades, President Mahama emphasized that a sustainable solution requires the development of a new water source. He revealed that studies conducted by Ghana Water Limited have identified the White Volta River near Yapei as the most viable option.
He announced plans to construct a new pumping station at Yapei, which will transport water over a distance of approximately 21 miles into Tamale. This new system is expected to significantly expand the city’s water capacity and address future demand.
The President described the project as essential to securing Tamale’s water supply, noting that it represents a strategic investment in the region’s infrastructure.
President Mahama outlined plans to integrate the new water source with the existing system, creating a dual supply arrangement. Water from the northern supply lines will continue to serve the metropolis, while the new pipeline from Yapei will feed additional water from the south.
He explained that the new supply will enter Tamale through areas such as Tamale South and Banvin, ensuring wider distribution across the city. This combined system, he said, will provide a reliable and sufficient supply to meet the needs of residents.
“When we finish it, it will bring 30 million gallons of fresh water to the Tamale metropolis,” he stated, expressing confidence that the project will resolve the longstanding shortages.
Commitment to Regional Development
The President emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader commitment to improving infrastructure in northern Ghana. He assured residents that the government is determined to address critical needs in the region, including access to clean water.
He also extended the commitment to neighboring communities, revealing plans to improve water supply in Yendi. According to him, the project will ensure that both Tamale and Yendi benefit from enhanced water systems.
He called on local leaders to remain engaged and informed, noting that collaboration between government and communities is essential for the successful implementation of development projects.
President Mahama acknowledged that the rapid expansion of Tamale has created increasing demand for essential services. He stressed that future planning must take into account population trends to avoid recurring shortages.
He indicated that the new water project is designed not only to meet current needs but also to accommodate future growth. By increasing supply capacity, the government aims to ensure that the city can sustain its development without facing repeated water crises.
Assurance to Residents
In his address, President Mahama reassured residents of his personal commitment to the project. He emphasized that addressing the water crisis is a priority and that concrete steps are already being taken to deliver results.
He urged the public to remain confident in the government’s efforts, stating that the project will significantly improve living conditions in Tamale once completed.
The planned intervention marks a significant step toward achieving water security in Tamale. By combining immediate repairs with long term investment in new infrastructure, the government aims to create a resilient water supply system.
President Mahama expressed optimism that the project will transform access to water in the metropolis, supporting economic activities and improving public health outcomes.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in national development efforts, emphasizing that access to clean water remains a fundamental priority.
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