Access to basic drinking water services in Ghana stands at 96.4% in urban areas compared with 74.4% in rural communities, exposing a 22-percentage-point gap in access, according to data cited by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

The figures highlight persistent disparities in access to essential water services despite progress at the national level.

According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census data referenced by the Ministry, 87.7% of households nationwide have access to basic drinking water services, while 92% use improved sources of drinking water.

However, the urban-rural divide remains significant, with rural households lagging considerably behind their urban counterparts.

The Ministry says the disparity underscores the need for continued investment in water infrastructure and stronger local-level interventions, particularly in underserved communities.

The figures were highlighted as Ghana joined other African countries to commemorate the 2026 African Day for Decentralisation and Local Development on Monday, August 10.

This year's observance is themed “Empowered Local Governments for Sustainable Water and Sanitation: Advancing Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Territories towards Agenda 2063.”

The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs said empowering Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) is critical to improving access to essential services, including water and sanitation.

It said government is working to strengthen local governments through improved institutional capacity, sustainable financing arrangements and partnerships involving Regional Coordinating Councils, MMDAs, Ghana Water Limited and the Community Water and Sanitation Agency.

Development partners, civil society organisations, traditional authorities and religious institutions are also expected to play a role in addressing water and sanitation challenges.

The Ministry said traditional and religious leaders are particularly important in mobilising communities, promoting responsible water use and supporting local initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and environmental management.

It said reducing the gap between urban and rural communities would require sustained investment and stronger local institutions capable of responding to the specific needs of their communities.

The government therefore urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to decentralised governance and support local authorities to improve service delivery as Ghana works towards the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union's Agenda 2063.