File photo of a galamsey site in Ghana
For the past five months, the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has been unable to supply adequate water to residents of Abuakwa South and Fanteakwa South districts due to severe pollution of the Birim River caused by illegal mining activities.
The river’s water turbidity has skyrocketed to an alarming level of 64,000 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), rendering the raw water untreatable.
The situation has severely affected the Kyebi and Bunso water treatment plants, which have struggled to operate effectively, leaving thousands of residents without access to potable water.
In response to the worsening crisis, the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has issued a stern directive to halt all illegal mining activities along the Birim River.
A statement from the Public Affairs Directorate of the Akyem Abuakwa State, signed by State Secretary D.M. Ofori-Atta, called for immediately removing all mining equipment from the river.
The directive stated that mining near water bodies is prohibited and announced the commissioning of a task force to enforce the removal of equipment and confiscate illegal mining tools starting February 28, 2025.
The Okyenhene reaffirmed the commitment of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council to protect the environment and water resources. He warned that if state security agencies fail to address the issue, traditional authorities will take independent action to safeguard the region’s natural resources.
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