By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor) enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
Nana Amponsah Kwaa IV, Chief of Atwima Kwanwoma, has issued a stern warning about the destructive effects of illegal mining (galamsey) on Ghana’s rivers during the maiden commemoration of World Rivers Day in Ghana.
In his keynote address, the Chief highlighted illegal mining as one of the gravest threats to the country’s vital water bodies, pointing out how the pollution caused has forced Ghana Water Limited to shut down some water pumping stations; a clear indication of the growing water crisis.
“Illegal mining, along with unregulated sand winning, waste dumping, and deforestation, has left many of our rivers polluted and degraded,” Nana Amponsah Kwaa IV stated, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
He acknowledged government efforts such as the creation of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to lead coordinated intelligence-driven operations against galamsey, and the deployment of Blue Water Guards stationed along key rivers to monitor and respond to illegal activities.
Recently, the government also designated forests and water bodies as security zones, empowering agencies to take stronger action.
However, the Chief stressed that saving Ghana’s rivers is a shared responsibility that requires the collective effort of communities, traditional leaders, the private sector, and especially the youth.
“Our rivers, including the Ayensu, Pra, Tano, and Volta, are crucial for agriculture, hydropower, drinking water, transportation, and cultural heritage. We must all become custodians to protect these lifelines,” he urged.
Under this year’s theme, “Our Rivers, Our Future,” Nana Amponsah Kwaa IV challenged individuals to take personal responsibility by reducing plastic waste, planting trees along riverbanks, and advocating for sustainable practices to secure the future of Ghana’s rivers.
In closing, he thanked all partners and citizens championing the protection of Ghana’s waterways and reminded the nation that the survival of its rivers is integral to its future prosperity.
Source; www.leakyghana.com
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
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