Ghana is teetering on the brink of a catastrophic water crisis, with severe water stress predicted by 2025 if immediate and decisive action is not taken, according to the Water Resources Commission. This dire forecast is compounded by the current cholera outbreak, which underscores the devastating consequences of inadequate access to clean water.
The statistics are alarming: one in five individuals in Ghana lacks access to safe drinking water, with this figure escalating to one in three in the Northern Region ¹. Furthermore, a staggering 73% of the population uses water that may not meet sanitary standards, leaving only 3.9 million people with access to safe drinking water.
The root causes of this crisis are multifaceted. Rapid urbanization has led to inadequate housing facilities, resulting in polluted waterways ¹. Additionally, illegal mining activities pose a significant threat to water resources, contaminating water bodies and jeopardizing the health and safety of communities.
To address this pressing issue, a comprehensive national strategy is imperative. This should encompass:
– Nationwide Infrastructure Repair and Enhancement: Prioritizing urgent repairs and upgrades of existing water treatment plants, alongside expanded distribution networks to guarantee access to clean and safe drinking water.
– Development of a Sustainable Water Management Strategy: Collaborating with stakeholders to create a comprehensive water resource management plan, prioritizing conservation, efficient use of resources, and best practices for water extraction and treatment.
– Strengthening Regulatory Framework Against Illegal Mining: Combating illegal mining activities through strengthened enforcement mechanisms, collaboration with relevant agencies, and public awareness campaigns.
It is crucial that we recognize access to safe water as a fundamental right for all Ghanaians. The time for action is now, and collective efforts are necessary to ensure reliable access to clean water for every citizen.
Source: Collins Owusu Debrah (Parliamentary Correspondent)
