Ghana’s Business Landscape: GWL Cracks Down on Utility Theft While Experts Call for Empathetic Workplace Policies

The Ghanaian business environment is witnessing a significant push for both operational integrity and human-centric management. In a major enforcement action, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has surcharged a customer, Sabare Dramani Isaah, over GH¢74,000 for illegal water reconnection. This discovery was made by the company’s Revenue Enhancement Team during an intensive nationwide campaign aimed at curbing illegal activities that deplete the utility provider's resources. Mr. Isaah had reportedly reinstated his water service and added an unauthorized line without company approval after being disconnected for three months, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges.

According to the Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited, these enforcement measures are vital for the company’s financial health and the maintenance of critical water infrastructure. The surcharge serves as a stern warning to other consumers that utility theft will not be tolerated. The GWL leadership has encouraged all customers to follow the official channels for reconnections and service upgrades, emphasizing that the revenue lost to illegal connections directly impacts the company’s ability to provide reliable services to the broader public.

Parallel to these operational challenges, there is a growing conversation regarding the 'human' side of business management in Ghana. Akosua Ago Aboagye, a prominent broadcaster and General Manager of Sompa FM, has issued a passionate call to employers to prioritize worker well-being over rigid productivity metrics. Speaking at the 'Convergence of Mothers' event, Aboagye urged business leaders to implement flexible workplace policies that accommodate mothers and employees facing personal challenges, arguing that a supportive environment ultimately fosters long-term loyalty and efficiency.

These two developments highlight the dual priorities facing modern Ghanaian organizations: the need for strict adherence to regulations and revenue protection on one hand, and the necessity of progressive human resource management on the other. While GWL focuses on protecting corporate assets from theft, Aboagye’s advocacy reminds the business community that the sustainability of an enterprise also depends on the health and morale of its workforce. Moving forward, the balance between rigorous enforcement and empathetic leadership will likely define the success of both public and private sector entities in the country.