Electricity and water tariffs have been increased by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Water Company (GWC) respectively.
The new tariffs, which took effect on September 28th, reflect a 3.02% rise in electricity prices and a 1.86% increase in water tariffs for the third quarter of 2024.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has explained that the increment is necessary due to external factors such as exchange rate instability, inflation, and rising gas prices.
However, the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has expressed concern, stating that the hikes will exacerbate the already high cost of living for Ghanaians.
“The new tariff is not justifiable,” said Joseph Paddy, Public Relations Officer for GUTA. “It stems from rising gas prices, interest rates, and exchange rates. This will make the cost of living in the country extremely difficult and very high.”
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Adding to the concerns, experts warn that Ghana’s rampant illegal mining (“galamsey”) is threatening the country’s water resources, potentially leading to future water shortages and further price increases.
They urged the government to intensify efforts to combat this destructive practice.
