The once-iconic River Suble, situated behind the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Nkroful, the birthplace of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has fallen victim to illegal mining activities, known locally as “galamsey.” This river, which once held historical and cultural significance, is now a stark example of the environmental destruction caused by unregulated mining in the area.
For the residents of Nkroful, the river has long been a vital resource, providing water for drinking and bathing, especially during the dry seasons. However, with the rise of illegal mining, the river has been polluted beyond use. The widespread environmental degradation has sparked outrage and concern among locals, who are witnessing firsthand the destruction of their natural resources and the tarnishing of a significant historical landmark.
Speaking to Channel One TV News, several residents expressed their dismay over the current state of the river. Christopher Tane, a long-time resident of Nkroful, lamented the loss of the river’s utility. “This is the only water we depended on for bathing and drinking, and it was very useful to us during the dry season. However, because of the activities of galamsey, we now have difficulty getting potable water,” Tane said. He called on the government to intervene and put a stop to the illegal mining that is devastating their community.
Tane’s sentiments were echoed by Ama Begyina, another resident who highlighted the community’s reliance on the river before the onset of illegal mining. “We used to drink and bathe from this river, and it was so helpful to us. But because of their galamsey, they have destroyed it,” she said. Begyina pointed out that the local chiefs of Anwia, Bokazo, and Nkroful may know more about those responsible for the ongoing devastation. “Right now, we don’t get water here for our needs. We now depend on well water,” she added, underscoring the community’s struggles to access clean water.
The destruction of the River Suble has also sparked concerns about the lasting impact on Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy. As the birthplace of Ghana’s first president, Nkroful holds a unique place in the country’s history. However, the degradation of such a historically significant site has left many questioning the leadership and governance in place to protect it. The once-pristine river, now polluted, serves as a grim reminder of the cost of unchecked illegal mining.
Galamsey has become a nationwide crisis in Ghana, with several rivers and natural resources being destroyed by unregulated mining. Despite government efforts to curb illegal mining, including launching campaigns and setting up task forces, the issue continues to pose a major threat to the environment and livelihoods of many Ghanaians, particularly in rural communities like Nkroful.
The residents of Nkroful are calling for urgent government intervention to not only halt the illegal mining activities but to also restore the river to its original state. However, they acknowledge that the damage caused may take years, if not decades, to reverse. The reliance on well water is a temporary solution, but many are concerned about its sustainability, as well as the long-term health implications of not having access to clean, natural water sources.
Environmental groups and activists have also raised alarms about the broader implications of galamsey on Ghana’s ecosystems. The destruction of water bodies like River Suble not only impacts local communities but also poses a threat to biodiversity and agricultural practices. The loss of such vital resources could have far-reaching consequences for food security and economic stability in the region.
For now, the people of Nkroful continue to fight for the protection of their river and hope that the authorities will take swift action to bring an end to the illegal mining operations. Many believe that the involvement of local chiefs may be contributing to the persistence of the problem, and they are calling for a thorough investigation into who is benefiting from the destruction of the river.
The devastation of the River Suble is not just an environmental issue—it is a deep wound on the history and pride of Nkroful. As the birthplace of one of Africa’s greatest leaders, the town should be a symbol of progress and preservation. Instead, it is becoming a cautionary tale of what happens when greed and corruption take precedence over the protection of natural and historical heritage.
With growing pressure from both residents and environmental advocates, there is hope that meaningful action will be taken to address the galamsey crisis in Nkroful. For many, saving the River Suble is about more than just access to water; it is about preserving a piece of Ghana’s history and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty and significance of this sacred site.
