The United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) Working Group on Women, Youth in Peace and Security (WG-WYPS) Ghana Chapter, has called on a comprehensive government response to address the destructive effects of illegal mining on the nation’s water resources.

The group emphasized that river and other water body contamination seriously affects women and children in rural communities.

In their press release dated September 9, 2024, the WG-WYPS Ghana Chapter emphasized that current environmental studies present an alarming picture of the condition of affairs.

“An ‘Ecological Study of GALAMSEY Activities in Ghana and their Physiological Toxicity,’ published in 2024, reveals high levels of contamination in districts like Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Bodi, and Juabeso,” Theodora Williams Anti, WG – WYPS Ghana Chapter Convener-GHANA noted.

According to her, there is serious harm being caused to the nation’s ecosystem and nearby communities including rivers the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim.

The group also emphasized how water pollution affects rural households. They reported that almost 71% of rural families report problems with their drinking water, including odour, colour, and the presence of suspended solids, citing data from the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS 7). “This poses a serious threat not only to the health and livelihoods of citizens but also to the peace and stability of affected communities,” she explained.

The Ghana Chapter of WG-WYPS also issued a warning, stating that Ghana’s adherence to international peace and security is being compromised by the worsening condition of its lands and waterways. “Galamsey threatens the United Nations Security Council Resolutions governing Ghana’s commitment to peace, security, and community resilience,” Madam Anti stressed.

The group issued a call to action, requesting the prompt publishing of a government roadmap to address the difficulties with water security brought on by galamsey activities. They called on the president, key ministries, and Parliament to prioritise including women and youth in resource management decision-making processes, support sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen governance and enforcement measures.

“We call on decision-makers to take urgent and coordinated action to address these critical issues,” the Convener emphasized.

The group also urged citizens, particularly women and the youth to hold companies and politicians responsible for escalating the galamsey crisis. “We call on citizens to call out nonchalant behaviours, politicians, and businesses that fuel the galamsey menace to protect our future as citizens,” she declared.