If you're planning to drill a borehole in Ghana, one of the first questions you'll ask is: how much will it cost? The honest answer is — it depends. But this guide will walk you through every factor that affects the price so you can budget accurately and avoid nasty surprises.
Borehole Drilling Cost Per Metre in Ghana
Most drilling companies in Ghana charge by the metre drilled. Understanding this rate is key to estimating your total cost, since you don't know exactly how deep you'll need to go until the geologist assesses your site.
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling cost per metre | GH₵180 – GH₵320/m | Varies by rock hardness and region |
| PVC casing per metre | GH₵90 – GH₵160/m | Required for borehole lining |
| Borehole development & flushing | GH₵800 – GH₵1,500 | Cleaning the borehole after drilling |
| Pump (submersible, domestic) | GH₵1,800 – GH₵4,500 | Pedrollo, Grundfos, DAB brands common |
| Pump installation | GH₵600 – GH₵1,200 | Including rising main and wiring |
| Water quality testing | GH₵300 – GH₵800 | Basic physico-chemical + bacteria |
| Site assessment (AquaProbe) | GH₵800 – GH₵1,500 | Before drilling — saves far more |
Example: Total cost for a 50-metre borehole in Accra
- Drilling (50m × GH₵240/m) = GH₵12,000
- PVC casing (20m × GH₵120/m) = GH₵2,400
- Development & flushing = GH₵1,200
- Submersible pump + installation = GH₵3,800
- Water testing = GH₵500
- Total ≈ GH₵19,900
What Affects the Borehole Drilling Price?
1. Depth required
This is the single biggest cost driver. In parts of Greater Accra like Tema and Ashaiman, the water table can be reached at 30–45 metres. In harder granite areas of the Eastern Region, you may need 60–80 metres. The deeper you go, the more casing, more drilling time, and more cost.
2. Rock type and hardness
Drilling through soft weathered rock is faster and cheaper than drilling through hard crystalline basement rock. Ghana's geology varies significantly — the coastal plains are often easier than the Ashanti and Brong Ahafo zones which sit on harder Birimian formations.
3. Borehole diameter
A 6-inch diameter borehole for domestic use costs less than an 8-inch or 10-inch borehole designed for irrigation or commercial supply. Most homeowners need a 6-inch hole.
4. Location and access
Transporting drilling rigs to remote areas increases cost. Remote northern regions or island communities will attract a mobilisation surcharge of GH₵1,000–GH₵3,000.
5. Pump type and size
A basic domestic submersible pump (0.5–1.5kW) can cost GH₵1,800–GH₵3,000. A solar borehole pump system suitable for off-grid use costs GH₵4,500–GH₵9,000 including panels and controller.
Borehole Cost by Region in Ghana
Location plays a big role in borehole drilling prices. Here's a general guide based on typical depths and mobilisation costs:
| Region | Typical Depth | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Greater Accra (Accra, Tema) | 30–50m | GH₵14,000 – 20,000 |
| Ashanti (Kumasi, Obuasi) | 40–65m | GH₵16,000 – 23,000 |
| Eastern Region | 45–70m | GH₵17,000 – 25,000 |
| Central Region | 35–55m | GH₵15,000 – 21,000 |
| Volta Region | 40–60m | GH₵16,000 – 22,000 |
| Northern / Upper Regions | 30–50m | GH₵15,000 – 24,000* |
*Includes mobilisation surcharge for remote sites. Costs are estimates; get a site assessment for your specific location.
Solar Borehole Installation Cost in Ghana
Solar-powered borehole systems are increasingly popular, especially in areas with unreliable grid power or for off-grid farms and estates. A solar borehole installation typically costs:
- Solar submersible pump: GH₵3,500 – GH₵6,000
- Solar panels (2–4 panels): GH₵2,500 – GH₵5,000
- Controller, wiring, mounting: GH₵1,000 – GH₵2,000
- Overhead tank (optional): GH₵800 – GH₵2,500
- Total solar borehole system: GH₵8,000 – GH₵16,000 (plus drilling cost)
Borehole Maintenance Cost
Once installed, a borehole requires periodic maintenance to keep it productive and the water safe:
- Annual water quality testing: GH₵300 – GH₵600
- Pump service (every 1–2 years): GH₵400 – GH₵900
- Borehole flushing / rehabilitation: GH₵1,500 – GH₵3,500
- Pump replacement (every 5–10 years): GH₵1,800 – GH₵5,000
How to Get an Accurate Borehole Quote in Ghana
The only way to get an accurate quote is to:
- Have your site assessed first — know the expected depth range before you invite contractors to quote
- Get at least 3 quotes — prices vary widely between companies
- Ask for itemised quotes — drilling, casing, pump, development and testing should all be listed separately
- Check contractor licensing — only use companies registered with the Water Resources Commission of Ghana
- Use an independent consultant — an independent consultant like AquaProbe can review quotes on your behalf
Get a Free Consultation First
Before you invite quotes, let us tell you what depth to expect at your site — so contractors can't overcharge or take advantage of your uncertainty.
WhatsApp Us — It's FreeFrequently Asked Questions
How much does borehole drilling cost per foot in Ghana?
Most Ghanaian contractors quote in metres. At GH₵180–GH₵320 per metre, that's roughly GH₵55–GH₵98 per foot (1 metre = 3.28 feet).
Can I drill my own borehole in Ghana?
Manual borehole drilling is technically possible in very shallow, soft-soil areas but is not recommended. The Water Resources Commission requires permits for borehole drilling, and unlicensed drilling carries legal and safety risks. Always use a licensed contractor.
Is borehole water safe to drink in Ghana?
Borehole water is generally safe but must be tested before drinking. Some areas have elevated iron, fluoride, or bacterial contamination. A basic water quality test (GH₵300–800) will tell you whether treatment is needed.
How long does it take to drill a borehole in Ghana?
The drilling itself typically takes 1–3 days depending on depth and rock hardness. Add 1–2 days for pump installation and development. From booking to completion, allow 2–3 weeks.
What is borehole drilling cost per metre in Ghana?
Current market rates for borehole drilling cost per metre in Ghana range from GH₵180 to GH₵320 per metre, with the average around GH₵240/m for standard rotary drilling in accessible locations.