Dear Mahama Series: Water Becomes Scarce and Costly in Central Region Amid Galamsey Impact

Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has unleashed a new wave of exploitation in the Central Region, where many communities are now battling an escalating water crisis.

Once abundant rivers such as the Ayensu and Pra have become heavily polluted, forcing residents to turn to privately controlled sources for clean water. The situation has grown so dire that a gallon of borehole water now sells for as high as GH¢5, placing an additional financial burden on already struggling households.

With natural water sources rendered unsafe, water has effectively become a commodity in the hands of private vendors. In some localities, okada riders have taken on a new role as water couriers, shuttling from one community to another and charging families for every gallon they manage to deliver.

The crisis has deepened frustrations among residents, many of whom are calling on the government to intensify efforts to stop galamsey and restore safe drinking water to the region.

JoyNews’ Emmanuel Dzivenu reports in today’s edition of the Dear Mahama: Stop Galamsey series.