Governance and effectiveness of public–private partnership in Ghana's rural-water sector

PurposeThis study examined the governance and implementation of public–private partnership (PPP) based on the management contract model in the water sector in rural Ghana.Design/methodology/approachIt employed in-depth interviews with key management officials and focus-group discussions among residents in selected water-stressed communities in the beneficiary District Assemblies. Thematic analysis was employed for the analyses.FindingsThe governance of the PPP project was characterized by a well-structured institutional arrangement and effective governance mechanisms. The PPP project has increased residents' access to potable and affordable water and facilitated local economic and social development in its catchment areas. However, insufficient funding, political interference, limited infrastructural capacity and pollution are threatening its success.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the literature on effective governance and performance of rural-based PPP water supply projects for the achievement of the sustainable development goals goal six on access to affordable and quality water.