The Aowin Municipal Assembly has allocated GH₵2 million cedis to drill boreholes in communities affected by illegal mining activities (galamsey).
Mr Stephen Morcher, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), who made this known during a community engagement, said galamsey operations had severely polluted streams and rivers, depriving residents of clean water.
He said the Assembly received GH₵5.8 million from the District Assembly Common Fund, and that GH₵2 million cedis would be used to drill boreholes to provide potable water for affected communities.
Mr Morcher noted that the funds could have been used for other development projects like infrastructure for schools, health centres, and road if the water bodies were not destroyed by illegal mining activities.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices and cautioned miners to adhere to the modalities of the Minerals Commission, to protect forest reserves and water bodies.
Mr Steven Korshi Agbo, the Deputy Manager and Social Scientist at the Minerals Commission, warned Ghanaians of the dire consequences if illegal mining persisted in the country.
He noted that Ghana might be forced to import water within a decade, and highlighted health risks, including birth deformities due to chemical exposure.
Mr Agbo urged miners to acquire licenses and cooperate with the Minerals Commission to protect the environment for future generations.
GNA
