A borehole is a narrow vertical hole drilled into the ground to access underground water stored in geological formations called aquifers. Unlike surface water sources (rivers, dams and rainwater), a borehole draws from groundwater — water that has filtered through rock and soil over decades or centuries and is naturally protected from surface contamination when properly drilled and cased.
How a Borehole Works
A drilling rig advances a drill bit through soil and rock until it reaches a productive aquifer — a water-bearing zone capable of supplying water continuously. The hole is lined with PVC or steel casing to prevent collapse and surface contamination. A submersible electric pump sits inside the casing below the water table and pumps water to the surface. An overhead tank stores the water for distribution by gravity.
Types of Borehole
💧 Water supply borehole
The most common type in Ghana. Drilled to supply clean water to homes, farms, communities and businesses.
☀️ Solar borehole
A water supply borehole fitted with a solar-powered pump instead of a grid-connected electric pump. Zero electricity bills.
🏗️ Geotechnical borehole
Drilled for soil sampling and foundation investigation — not for water supply. Used by engineers designing buildings, roads and bridges.
🌿 Soakaway borehole
Drilled for drainage rather than water supply — allows surface water or effluent to percolate into the ground.
How Deep Is a Borehole?
In Ghana, most water supply boreholes reach their aquifer between 25 and 80 metres depth — but this varies significantly by region and geology:
- Coastal areas (Greater Accra) — typically 30–50m. Softer sedimentary formations. Saline intrusion risk near the sea.
- Ashanti, Eastern, Western — typically 40–65m. Hard Birimian rock. 91% success rate when correctly sited.
- Northern Ghana — typically 25–45m. Voltaian sedimentary basin. Fluoride risk in some areas.
- Upper East, Upper West — typically 15–40m. Basement complex. Yield varies enormously — siting is critical.
What Does a Borehole Cost in Ghana?
A complete domestic borehole in Ghana — including site survey, drilling, casing, pump and water testing — costs between GH₵12,000 and GH₵28,000 depending on depth, location and pump type. A solar borehole system costs GH₵25,000–GH₵55,000. See the full breakdown: Borehole drilling cost guide for Ghana.
Is Borehole Water Safe to Drink in Ghana?
Borehole water in Ghana is not automatically safe to drink without testing. Some areas have naturally elevated iron, fluoride or salinity. Poorly-sited boreholes near latrines or septic systems can be contaminated with bacteria. A professional site survey before drilling and a water quality test on completion are both essential. Read more: Is borehole water safe to drink in Ghana?
Do You Need a Permit to Drill a Borehole in Ghana?
Yes. Under the Water Resources Commission Act (Act 522, 1996) and L.I. 1827 (2006), groundwater in Ghana is vested in the state. Drilling without a valid WRC Water Drilling Licence is illegal — even on your own land. Only contractors listed on the WRC's Drilling Licence Register are legally authorised to drill. AquaProbe is WRC-licensed and handles the permit application on your behalf.
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