CONIWAS Pays Courtesy Call to CWSA to Strengthen Collaboration
The Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) paid a courtesy visit to the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) on 18th March 2025, aiming to strengthen their longstanding partnership and discuss the agency’s new leadership direction.
Speaking on behalf of the CONIWAS delegation, Ms Basilia Nanbigne the Executive Secretary expressed gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the significance of the meeting.
“This meeting is an opportunity for us to strengthen our partnership and continue the collaboration we have built over the years. We recognize that leadership is about continuity—building on what exists while introducing fresh ideas for improvement.”
CONIWAS highlighted its long history of collaboration with CWSA, dating back two to three decades, and emphasized the coalition’s commitment to supporting rural water service delivery. The Executive Secretary noted that while urban areas were historically prioritized in water reforms, the advocacy efforts of NGOs and early government visionaries played a pivotal role in bringing rural water access to the forefront.
The discussion highlighted the changing dynamics of NGO-government relations, moving from a view of NGOs as external actors to a more collaborative approach. “Today, the public sector is the duty bearer, setting the agenda, while NGOs provide expertise and resources,” stated by the Executive Secretary. CONIWAS, with over 100 members, includes local and international NGOs, as well as private sector entities involved in water service delivery, reaching both urban and remote rural areas.
CWSA’s Response and Strategic Direction
In response, the CHIEF EXECUTIVE, MR. VINCENT SENAM KUAGBENU of CWSA expressed appreciation for CONIWAS’s continued advocacy and support, likening the coalition’s role to that of “midwives aiding in the delivery” of the agency’s reforms. A CWSA representative recounted how CONIWAS played a key role in supporting the agency’s 2017 reforms, ensuring stakeholder engagement and wider acceptance of the initiatives.
Addressing concerns on point source water systems, CWSA provided updates on national water policy implementation and the forthcoming Community Water and Sanitation Reform Program. This program, once approved by the Cabinet, will guide legislative actions and policy implementation. A major component involves the integration of point sources into larger water system management structures, with trained personnel overseeing both piped and borehole systems within designated service zones. CWSA further outlined its strategy to manage Ghana’s approximately 40,000 point sources through a structured approach that includes area mechanics and a circuit rider model—similar to circuit supervisors in education—to ensure regular monitoring and maintenance.
CWSA also emphasized the importance of improved data collection and coordination between NGOs and government agencies. “Many NGOs have provided boreholes, yet data collection and management remain a challenge. Improved coordination in this area will enhance our ability to maintain and utilize these resources effectively.”
To ensure alignment with national reforms, CWSA urged NGOs working in the WASH sector to collaborate closely with the agency and adhere to established guidelines for rural water delivery.
Looking ahead, CWSA reaffirmed its commitment to the full realization of its reform agenda and pledged to hold annual stakeholder meetings for progress reviews and feedback. CONIWAS was invited to play an active role in shaping strategies to improve water access in Ghana. Furthermore, a dedicated liaison officer, Dr. Quansah, will coordinate partnerships with NGOs and the private sector to strengthen collaboration.
In closing, both parties acknowledged the historical contributions of their partnership in advancing water access and committed to working together towards sustainable and inclusive water services across Ghana.
