Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aide to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has revealed the devastating impact of illegal mining, or galamsey, on Ghana’s water sources. According to Aboagye, the crisis has become so severe that in some regions, Ghanaians are being forced to drink polluted water because they have no access to clean, potable water.
During a recent visit with media personnel to Agona Kwanyako in the Agona East District, Aboagye showcased evidence of the water pollution. He explained that despite having no history of mining in their district, residents are suffering the effects of galamsey from the faraway Eastern Region.
The situation has caused the Ayensu River, which flows through Agona East and surrounding districts, to become heavily polluted, leading to the shutdown of the local water treatment plant. As a result, approximately 11 districts have lost access to clean water. Aboagye highlighted the plight of women who are now forced to fetch this contaminated water and boil it for hours before it is safe to drink.
Aboagye challenged the NDC government to take action, stating that the evidence of the crisis was found “right in the home of the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.” He called on the government to fulfil its campaign promises and address the worsening situation.
Drawing on data from the Water Resources Commission, Aboagye referenced the Water Quality Index to support his claims. He stated that in 2010, 40 out of 41 water sources were rated “fairly good,” but this began to deteriorate between 2012 and 2016, where 60-70% of sampling sites had “poor water quality.” He asserted that the quality improved from 2017 with the NPP government, which he claimed restored 14 of 25 previously destroyed water systems. Aboagye concluded by saying that the NDC’s record on water quality is clear and called on the current government to stop referencing the previous administration and focus on fixing the problem.
