WaterAid Urges Swift Action Against Illegal Mining Amidst Water Crisis
WaterAid Ghana has condemned illegal miners as “mass murderers” for their role in contaminating water sources that hinder access to clean drinking water. Ibrahim Musah highlights the severe decline in water quality within the Upper East Region, manifesting in increased hardships for local communities, especially women. Experts stress the urgency for government intervention and environmental conservation measures to mitigate the ongoing crisis.
WaterAid Ghana has intensified its campaign against illegal mining, labeling those responsible as “mass murderers” due to their detrimental impact on the nation’s water bodies. Ibrahim Musah, the head of strategy, policy, and campaigns for WaterAid Ghana, highlighted that illegal mining has severely contaminated water sources, thereby complicating efforts by Ghana Water Limited to supply residents with safe drinking water.
Musah pointed out that treatment plants in Koforidua, Cape Coast, and Takoradi are facing significant challenges due to the pollution resulting from galamsey operations. He urged the government to prosecute those involved in illegal mining through legal channels. He remarked on the increasing difficulties Ghana Water encounters in filtering sufficient clean water, stressing the urgency in addressing this crisis.
Recent research conducted by WaterAid indicated a troubling decline in water quality across the Upper East Region. Areas such as Nabdam and Kassena-Nankana Municipalities suffer from reduced access to clean water, exacerbated by climate change and pollution. Communities are experiencing an annual loss of approximately 8% in rainfall, which has led to a heavy reliance on unsafe water sources.
The repercussions of this water scarcity are particularly severe for women and girls, who are traditionally responsible for water collection. Musah noted that in the Bongo District, the time to collect water has increased significantly, adversely affecting women’s ability to engage in productive activities. Furthermore, the report indicated that significant portions of households lack access to safe drinking water, with Nabdam District recording about 55% without adequate source during the dry season.
Additionally, Jesse Kazapoe from the Water Resources Commission advocated for aggressive afforestation efforts to combat climate change effects in the region. He highlighted the fluctuations in rainfall patterns and their consequences, including flooding and erosion that endanger water reservoirs. Kazapoe confirmed that tree planting initiatives are essential to enhance groundwater recharge and mitigate the water crisis.
The study further noted that many institutions lack the necessary resources and expertise to implement effective climate adaptation strategies. Among the suggestions were rainwater harvesting systems and improved infrastructure for sanitation and hygiene. Haruna Tia Alhassan from the Nabdam District expressed a commitment to integrate the report’s findings into local development plans.
Kazapoe urged the government and local officials to prioritize environmental conservation, pushing for community engagement in sustainable land management. Given that illegal mining exacerbates the ongoing water crisis, experts are adamant that prompt action is critical to avoid severe public health, agricultural, and developmental repercussions for Ghana.
This article underscores the pressing water crisis in Ghana, primarily driven by illegal mining and exacerbated by climate change. WaterAid Ghana’s demand for urgent legal action against illegal miners emphasizes the need to restore the integrity of water sources. With a focus on afforestation and community engagement, stakeholders are called upon to prioritize sustainable practices to secure water resources and address the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.asaaseradio.com
