A surge in illegal mining activities within the Densu River basin, a critical water source for Accra, is endangering water supplies for more than 2 million residents. The Ghana Water Company Limited, responsible for treating water from the Densu River for distribution, has reported a sharp rise in turbidity levels due to pollution from these unauthorized mining activities, posing a severe risk to the region’s water security.
An investigation by Channel One News reveals that illegal miners have aggressively invaded the Densu River basin, encroaching on protective buffer zones and mining directly within the river using heavy machinery such as excavators. This illegal activity has resulted in the release of harmful chemicals and other pollutants into the water, further degrading its quality. The miners have also diverted the river’s natural course to facilitate round-the-clock mining operations without fear of intervention.
Local leaders and environmental officials are sounding the alarm over the escalating situation. Cynthia Dansoa, Assembly Member for the Potrase Electoral Area, expressed deep concern about the devastation caused by the miners, stating, “What is happening here is heartbreaking. The river is being destroyed, and with it, the future of our communities.” Her distress is shared by Kaba Abakeh, Assistant Basin Officer at the Water Resources Commission, who warned that the turbidity levels in the river have reached dangerously high levels, making it increasingly difficult to treat the water for safe consumption.
Felix Addo-Okyere, the Eastern Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), described the situation as a “national security threat” that requires urgent government intervention. “The Densu River is not just a water source for Accra; it’s a lifeline for millions of people. If we allow this to continue, we risk a severe water crisis,” he stated.
Despite the grave warnings, there appears to be little action from the government’s task force, Operation Vanguard, which was originally set up to combat illegal mining across the country. Many observers note that the task force has gone silent, effectively allowing the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves to continue unabated. Environmentalists and stakeholders are increasingly questioning whether the government’s fight against illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” has been lost.
Hopeson Eli Etsra, Landscape Manager at A Rocha Ghana, a leading environmental organization, emphasized the need for immediate action to save the Densu River. “We cannot afford to sit back and watch the complete degradation of one of our most important water sources. It’s not just an environmental issue; it’s a human rights issue,” Etsra said.
The situation in the Densu River basin also highlights the broader challenges facing Ghana in tackling illegal mining. The Minerals Commission, which oversees mining activities in the country, has reported increasing confrontations with illegal miners. During a recent visit to the basin, Commission officials faced armed resistance from miners, demonstrating the high stakes and dangers involved in enforcing the law in these areas.
The rise in illegal mining has prompted numerous calls for stronger enforcement of environmental regulations and more robust efforts to protect the country’s water resources. Yet, the apparent lack of action from authorities has raised concerns among local communities and environmental groups. “We need a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, local communities, and international partners, to address this crisis,” Etsra added.
The Densu River basin, which spans parts of the Eastern and Greater Accra regions, has long been a target for illegal miners due to its rich mineral deposits. However, the consequences of these activities have become increasingly severe, with significant environmental degradation and the contamination of water sources. The river’s pollution is not only impacting water quality but is also threatening local biodiversity, agriculture, and the livelihoods of those who depend on the river.
Environmental experts warn that unless immediate action is taken, the situation could deteriorate further, leading to long-term ecological damage and a potential water crisis in Accra and its surrounding areas. They advocate for stronger policy measures, including stricter enforcement of mining laws, increased funding for environmental protection, and greater community engagement to safeguard the river.
Local communities have also been urged to support efforts to protect the river by reporting illegal mining activities to the authorities and participating in conservation initiatives. However, many residents feel powerless in the face of armed miners and the perceived inaction by the government. “We are frustrated,” said a local farmer. “We keep hearing promises, but we see no real action. The river is dying, and with it, our future.”
In response to the crisis, some environmental groups have launched grassroots campaigns to raise awareness and pressure the government to act. A Rocha Ghana, for example, has organized community clean-ups and educational programs to highlight the importance of protecting the Densu River. “We need to act now, before it’s too late,” Etsra reiterated.
As the situation in the Densu River basin continues to deteriorate, the calls for action grow louder. The government faces mounting pressure to revive its efforts against illegal mining, enforce environmental regulations, and take decisive steps to protect Ghana’s precious water resources. Whether these calls will translate into concrete action remains to be seen, but the future of millions of Ghanaians depends on it.
