The Minority on the Works and Housing Committee has demanded the immediate removal of Ghana’s Lands Minister and his deputies, citing their failure to protect the country’s water bodies from the devastating effects of illegal mining, known as “galamsey.” Apexnewsgh reports
Vincent Oppong Asamoah, Ranking Member of the Committee, argued that replacing the ministers is crucial to addressing the crisis, stating, “If they cannot protect our mineral body, the best you can do is to sack them.”
Asamoah emphasized the widespread nature of the galamsey crisis, noting that even the hometown of Deputy Lands Minister Mireku Duker is affected. His comments reflect growing frustration over the ineffective management of illegal mining activities. The call for action follows alarming reports from Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), which warned of severe disruptions in water supply due to illegal mining in the Pra River.
The contamination has led to a dramatic reduction in water production nationwide, from 70 percent to just 40 percent.
The Central Region, including cities like Cape Coast and Elmina, has been particularly hard-hit, leaving residents without water for extended periods. Clifford Braimah, Managing Director of GWCL, suggested deploying the military to protect vulnerable water sources.
Despite these recommendations, Asamoah expressed doubts about the likelihood of effective measures being implemented before the upcoming general elections. Water and Sanitation Minister Lydia Alhassan assured the public that the ministry is actively working on interventions to mitigate the impact of illegal mining, stating, “The situation is getting worse by the day. We have put measures in place to minimize the situation.”
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
