Central Region: Food vendors using galamsey-polluted water to cook – GWL reveals

In a startling revelation that has sparked widespread concern, Nana Yaw Barima Barnieh, the Communications Manager of Ghana Water Limited (GWL) for the Western and Central Regions, disclosed that several food vendors in the Central Region have resorted to using water polluted by galamsey activities to cook meals for the public.

This alarming situation underscores the far-reaching consequences of illegal mining on public health and the environment.

The adverse effects of galamsey on water sources have forced GWL to reduce its water production by 30 percent at the Sekyerehemang Headworks, a critical water supply facility.

This decision comes as a direct response to the contamination caused by galamsey along the banks of the Pra River, which serves as a vital water source for the company’s operations.

The reduction in water production not only signifies the grave impact of illegal mining on water resources but also highlights the potential risk to public health, as contaminated water is inadvertently used in food preparation.

Despite the challenges posed by reduced water production, GWL has implemented measures to mitigate the impact on affected communities.

The company plans to supplement its water supply by tapping into the resources of the Bremsu Headworks.

Furthermore, in an effort to combat the scourge of galamsey and its detrimental effects on water quality, GWL has embarked on a sensitization campaign targeting communities along the banks of the Pra River.

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Eric Seth Atiapah, the Chief Manager of GWL, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that the company is committed to educating the public about the environmental hazards and health risks associated with galamsey.

The revelation by Mr. Barnieh during an interview with Selorm Adonoo on Citi FM‘s Eyewitness News sheds light on a critical aspect of the galamsey crisis that affects the daily lives of Ghanaians.

The use of contaminated water for food preparation poses a direct threat to public health, as unsuspecting consumers are exposed to harmful pollutants.

Mr. Barnieh’s call to action urges all Ghanaians to recognize the severity of the galamsey problem and to actively participate in efforts to combat this menace.

As Ghana grapples with the challenges of illegal mining, the situation in the Central Region serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, water resource management, and public health.

The fight against galamsey requires a concerted effort from government agencies, local communities, and the general public to safeguard water resources, ensure food safety, and protect the health and well-being of the nation.

The revelations by Ghana Water Limited underscore the urgency of addressing the galamsey issue head-on, to prevent further contamination of critical water sources and to ensure the safety of food consumed by the public.

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