BudgIT Ghana Calls for Urgent Action to Address Water Crisis in Tarkwa Amid Galamsey Devastation
BudgIT Ghana has issued a clarion call to President Mahama urging immediate action against the escalating Galamsey crisis, which has led to the alarming shutdown of the Bonsa Water Treatment Plant.
This facility, critical for providing drinking water to over 500,000 residents across 438 communities in Tarkwa-Nsuaem, has ceased operations due to the severe impact of illegal mining on the region’s water resources.
The shutdown of the Bonsa Water Treatment Plant is a stark indicator of the ongoing environmental catastrophe inflicted by Galamsey activities.
The plant, which supplies approximately 75% of the drinking water in Tarkwa and surrounding areas, has been rendered inoperable as rivers and water bodies are increasingly contaminated with toxic chemicals and sediment.
This deterioration poses a direct threat not only to public health but also to the agricultural productivity of a region known for its abundant rainfall and staple crop production.
Local residents are expressing their growing frustration and fear over the implications of this crisis. Ama Serwaa Bonsu, a teacher in Tarkwa, highlighted the potential long-term effects on children’s health, stating, “This water crisis will affect our children’s health, and the Galamsey toxins threaten their cognitive ability.”
Fati Razak, a local koko seller, mirrored these sentiments, noting that the water shortage jeopardizes her livelihood and the quality of food she provides to the community.
Despite months of protests and calls for government intervention, little has been done to address the dire situation.
The continuous degradation of water bodies not only threatens drinking water supplies but also jeopardizes the agricultural foundation of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem region, which produces vital crops such as maize, cassava, and cocoa.
BudgIT Ghana is advocating for a multi-faceted approach to combat this crisis, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement of existing mining laws, the protection of affected communities, and increased transparency in anti-Galamsey initiatives.
They stress that the time for mere discussion has passed as decisive action is essential to safeguard the nation’s water resources and environment.
In light of this pressing public health emergency, BudgIT Ghana is inviting all Ghanaians to support their advocacy efforts by signing a petition at Get Justice For Tarkwa which is aimed at urging the government to take immediate action.
