Operation and maintenance management of small towns water supply schemes in Ghana

The Operation and Maintenance Management of small towns water supply schemes have been neglected in the past in Ghana. This has affected the functionality of many water supply schemes and impacted negatively on the well-being of concerned people. There is the tendency to redefine the roles and responsibilities of the various actors involved in operation and maintenance. The government, because of heavy financial burdens and efficiency problems, is gradually changing its role of “provider of services” to that of “facilitator of processes”. Communities, therefore, have increasing responsibilities, not only in the operation and maintenance of their water supply schemes, but also in the financial management of these schemes. Some experiences and best practices that have been learnt in this case study are shared and recommendations made to enhance effective O&M management.