Businesses and individuals in the Central Region are struggling to get enough water for their activities due to shortage of the commodity. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has attributed the ongoing water crisis in the Region to illegal mining activities, also known as “galamsey,” along the Pra River. These activities have severely polluted the river, which is the main water source for treatment plants serving Cape Coast, Elmina, and surrounding communities. As a result, the water treatment plant at Sekyere Hemang is now operating at only a quarter of its capacity, drastically reducing the availability of potable water for the region.
The GWCL has reported that the pollution has caused turbidity levels to soar to an average of 14,000 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), far exceeding the designed treatment threshold of 2,000 NTU. This extreme level of siltation has made it nearly impossible for the treatment plant to purify the water effectively, leading to dry taps and forcing residents to endure extended periods without access to clean water.
The water supply issues have become a major public concern, as businesses and residents struggle to meet basic needs. The GWCL has expressed deep regret for the inconvenience but remains committed to working with stakeholders to find a sustainable solution to the crisis. Efforts are being made to engage local communities in the fight against illegal mining, with calls for the public to report any suspicious activities that could further damage the river.
This situation portrays the broader environmental and socio-economic impact of galamsey activities in Ghana. Beyond water scarcity, the degradation of natural resources threatens food security and public health, posing long-term challenges for the nation’s development. Local authorities and environmental advocates are urging for stronger enforcement of regulations to halt the ongoing destruction.
As the crisis continues, the GWCL and other stakeholders are emphasizing the need for immediate and collective action to restore the Pra River’s health and secure water supply for the affected regions.
