Story by: Ishmael Barfi
The Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) has voiced deep concern over the increasing destruction of major water bodies due to illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey, and the associated health risks to Ghanaians.
In her opening address at the Mole XXXV Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Conference in Ho, Volta Regional capital, CONIWAS Chairperson Beata Awinpoka Akanyani highlighted the severe contamination of rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, Birim, and Offin with toxic chemicals.
“CONIWAS is deeply saddened by the escalating negative impacts of Galamsey, which have led to the heavy contamination of major rivers,” Akanyani stated. She emphasized that this pollution poses long-term health risks, including neurological disorders, kidney damage, and developmental issues in children.
“Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable, with mercury exposure potentially causing birth defects and cognitive impairments. The contamination also contributes to waterborne diseases, skin ailments, and respiratory conditions,” she noted.
Akanyani also cited reports from Ghana Water Limited, indicating that pollution from Galamsey has significantly increased water treatment costs, disproportionately affecting the poor and vulnerable.
“We join many Civil Society Organizations and Ghanaians in calling on the government to take decisive action on this devastating issue,” she added.
The 2024 Mole WASH Conference, the 35th edition of the annual event, is themed “Looking Back on the Implementation of SDG 6: Progress, Challenges, and Way Forward.” The conference, which began in 1989, serves as a multi-stakeholder forum for public and private WASH sector players to assess the country’s progress toward universal access to WASH and propose new solutions.
CONIWAS leads the conference, supported by its members and international sector NGOs, including World Vision Ghana, IRC, WaterAid Ghana, UNICEF, Global Communities, and Plan Ghana, among others.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
