The Water Resources Commission commemorated World Water Day with a stakeholder engagement at Potrase in the Abuakwa South Municipality, highlighting growing concerns over the degradation of water bodies in the area.
The event brought together traditional authorities and key institutions, including Ghana Water Limited, the Forestry Commission, the Minerals Commission, A Rocha Ghana, and the Concerned Citizens of the Atewa Landscape. Discussions focused on persistent threats to rivers bodies, particularly the impact of illegal mining activities.
Speaking at the event, Kaba Abakeh of the Densu Basin Secretariat under the Water Resources Commission revealed that illegal mining commonly known as galamsey has significantly increased turbidity levels in the Densu River and surrounding water bodies, with readings exceeding 10,000 NTU.
He described the situation as deeply troubling, noting that the high pollution levels are making it increasingly difficult for Ghana Water Limited to effectively treat and supply potable water to communities.
Mr. Abakeh added that the Commission is working closely with traditional leaders to safeguard water resources and curb further destruction.
Representing the traditional leadership of Potrase, Nene Debrah, Asafoatse of Somanya, expressed grave concern over the devastation caused by illegal miners.
He called on the government to implement decisive and strategic measures to halt galamsey operations and protect vital water sources.
Alfred Owusu Ameyaw, Kyebi Forest District Manager of the Forestry Commission, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies to combat illegal mining.
He warned that illegal miners have encroached on the Atewa Forest Reserve, leading to deforestation, land degradation, and the pollution of critical upstream water sources.
Echoing similar concerns, Paul Asamaku, Convenor of the Concerned Citizens of the Atewa Landscape, urged the government to declare a state of emergency in the area to address the escalating environmental crisis.
Mr. Asamaku stressed that unchecked illegal mining continues to destroy both forests and water bodies across the municipality.
Also speaking at the event, Acheampong Fianko, Eastern Regional Coordinator of the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation, called for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to protect the region’s natural resources.
The event underscored the urgent need for coordinated action to preserve Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves, as illegal mining continues to pose a serious threat to environmental sustainability and public health.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Nhyiraba Solomon Nartey
