Nutrifoods Ghana Limited has inaugurated an upgraded wastewater treatment plant in Accra as part of efforts to promote sustainable water management and environmentally responsible industrial practices.
The facility was commissioned on Friday, March 27, 2026, in an event marking World Water Day, with a call for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s water resources.
The Deputy Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Gizella Tetteh Agbotui, said the initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable water use, noting that the plant is expected to save at least 8,000 litres of water daily—equivalent to about 16,000 sachets—for reuse in irrigation and green belt development.
Designed by Danish firm Alumichem, the plant also converts sludge into energy through a biogas process, supporting renewable energy generation while reducing industrial waste.
Call for stronger water protection measures
The Deputy Minister described water as a critical resource for life, health and national development, stressing the need for equitable and sustainable access.
She expressed concern that less than four per cent of wastewater in Ghana is treated, while over 95 per cent is discharged untreated into the environment, posing serious risks to ecosystems and public health.
To address the situation, she said the Ministry is developing a legislative instrument to regulate wastewater discharge and promote environmental sustainability.
“Safeguarding our water resources is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for social equity,” Hon. Agbotui said.
She urged industries to adopt efficient wastewater treatment technologies and commended the new facility, describing it as a major step towards water conservation and sustainable industrial practice.
She also praised the Embassy of Denmark in Ghana for facilitating the technology, highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing environmentally responsible operations.
Promoting reuse in construction
Mrs Tetteh-Agbotui further highlighted the growing demand for water in Ghana’s construction sector, particularly with ongoing infrastructure projects.
She noted that contractors consume significant volumes of water for activities such as concrete production and road construction, and recommended the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes, including road works and dust suppression, to preserve potable water for domestic and industrial use.
Company reaffirms sustainability commitment
The Business and Country Head of Nutrifoods Ghana Limited, Jay Anjaria, said the project demonstrates the company’s commitment to responsible production and environmental stewardship.
Undertaken in collaboration with the Royal Danish Embassy in Ghana, he said the initiative is intended to showcase practical solutions for industrial wastewater management and encourage similar investments across the country.
Mr Anjaria explained that sludge generated from the treatment process is transported to a biogas facility, where it is converted into electrical energy, reducing waste while contributing to renewable energy generation.
He emphasised that the investment reinforces Nutrifoods’ commitment to operating responsibly within Ghanaian regulations while working closely with regulators and development partners.
EPA warns over rising pollution
The Accra East Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Authority, Ghana, Samuel Oteng, warned that water pollution is increasing due to human activities such as improper waste disposal, detergents and urban runoff.
He cautioned that pollution poses significant health risks and could worsen water scarcity if not addressed.
He said the EPA continues to enforce standards by monitoring key indicators, including pH, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and conductivity, to ensure compliance.
“If we fail to act, we risk damaging our water sources and public health,” Mr Oteng warned.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh