A crisis is erupting in Konongo, located in the Ashanti region, where illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, are devastating the town’s water sources, igniting outrage among the local population.

These mining operations, situated along the main Kumasi-Accra highway, are contaminating the Owere River, the primary water source for Konongo and its neighboring communities.

Heavy machinery, including excavators, is being deployed alarmingly close to residential areas, churches, and businesses, leaving residents deeply concerned. The Head Pastor of the New Life Church of Light expressed his frustration, stating that the mining is wreaking havoc on the community.

Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minerals Commission claimed they were only notified about a dredging project initiated by the Asante Akim Central Assembly, not about the active mining operations now unfolding. The lack of transparency has further fueled tensions.

Residents are voicing their frustration over the continued destruction of vital water bodies and farmlands due to illegal mining activities. They accuse the authorities of failing to protect the environment and point out that the area has been deliberately obstructed to prevent travelers on the highway from witnessing the full extent of the damage. Additionally, a section of the highway near the mining site has been collapsing for years, with no repairs despite repeated appeals.

The worsening situation has sparked serious concerns about the government's capacity to regulate mining and safeguard the environment. Locals are demanding immediate action to stop the mining and restore their water sources.

Some women at Ewusiejo demonstrate how they use Alum to clear the Butre River polluted by Galamsey and the skin reactions they get after bathing with water. #JoySMS pic.twitter.com/F9aut09Lwd— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) August 12, 2024

In a related issue, a resident of Ewusiejo in the Western Region shared her worries about the critical shortage of clean water in her community. In a viral video, she demonstrated how residents are forced to use alum, a chemical compound, to purify the muddy water they collect from the Butre River.

She blamed the contamination on rampant illegal mining, which has polluted water sources, leaving them with no other option but to rely on this makeshift solution for drinking and bathing.

Despite government efforts to curb illegal mining across the country, the issue persists. Many involved in galamsey cite the economic difficulties in Ghana and the lucrative returns from the illicit activity as reasons for continuing this harmful practice.