The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Bolgatanga East, Jacob Abugre Aka-Eri, has revealed that plans are far advanced to settle outstanding electricity debts and upgrade key community water systems in the district to solar-powered facilities, as part of efforts to ensure sustainable access to potable water.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Aka-Eri disclosed that the Nyorkoko and Kango mechanized water systems have accumulated electricity bills of about GH¢200,000 and GH¢100,000 respectively, largely because both facilities are connected to the national grid.
According to him, the burden of these debts has become unbearable for the beneficiary communities.
“The Nyorkoko system alone is like a mini water supply system serving a lot of people, but the electricity bill has risen to about GH¢200,000. The community simply cannot pay,” the DCE explained.
He noted that the situation has been worsened by frequent breakdowns and structural defects, including a weak stand supporting the water tank, which affects the system’s efficiency and durability.
To address these challenges, the District Assembly is planning to upgrade both systems to solar-powered mechanized boreholes. Mr. Aka-Eri said the move will not only eliminate recurring electricity bills but also ensure a more reliable and cost-effective water supply for residents.
“We want to rebuild it properly with a solar system and disconnect it completely from the national grid so the people can truly benefit,” he emphasized.
Beyond Nyorkoko and Kango, the DCE announced that the Assembly is undertaking an extensive water infrastructure programme involving about 30 boreholes across the district. Out of these, 15 boreholes are currently being drilled, 14 are at various stages of completion, while three are being rehabilitated and upgraded.
He revealed that site handovers to contractors have already begun following the advertisement of the projects in December.
Mr. Aka-Eri also raised concerns about the sustainability of community water systems, particularly maintenance and bill payments. While acknowledging that water management committees exist in most communities, he observed that they often struggle to handle major repairs and accumulated debts.
“They can manage small maintenance, but when a bigger problem comes, they can’t. When government intervenes and clears the debt, people relax and stop contributing,” he noted.
The DCE stressed that the Assembly cannot continue to rely solely on the District Assemblies Common Fund to address such recurring challenges, underscoring the need for sustainable systems such as solar-powered facilities that significantly reduce operational costs.
He said the planned interventions demonstrate the Assembly’s commitment to improving access to safe drinking water while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
