The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has issued a strong warning about the devastating effects of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, on Ghana’s water resources, urging government to declare a state of emergency to curb the menace.
During a fact-finding mission to major water treatment facilities in Kwanyako, Kyebi, and Akyem Oda, TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah described the situation as “deeply troubling,” revealing that uncontrolled galamsey operations have severely polluted rivers and disrupted water production.
“It’s really sad. What we have heard and seen with our own eyes this morning is alarming,” he said. “If urgent steps are not taken, the entire plant could shut down, and water will become a scarce commodity for Ghanaians.”
Mr. Ansah added that the TUC will engage government to demand “pragmatic measures” to end illegal mining permanently.
“Today has dampened our spirit, but it has also strengthened our resolve. A state of emergency is both urgent and necessary,” he emphasized.
He cautioned that if immediate and decisive action is not taken, Ghana could face a nationwide water shortage, as treatment plants continue to struggle with heavily contaminated raw water sources.
