Former Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Dr. Clifford Braimah, has warned that Ghana could face a serious shortage of potable water in the near future if urgent steps are not taken to protect the country’s water bodies from pollution.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Tuesday, April 28, Dr. Braimah said increasing levels of heavy metals in rivers and other water sources are becoming a major threat to Ghana’s long-term water security.
He explained that although illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, is often blamed for the pollution of water bodies, it is not the only contributing factor.
According to him, several human activities across the country are gradually contaminating water sources, with poor waste disposal practices playing a significant role.
Dr. Braimah pointed to activities by mechanics, electricians and other artisans who improperly dispose of hazardous materials, allowing harmful substances to seep into water systems during rainfall.
“It is true that we will soon risk running out of water. I keep on repeating that some of the heavy metals we find in our water do not necessarily come from galamsey,” he stated.
“There are a lot of activities that are dangerous if we don’t improve. You go everywhere and you see mechanics, electricians and others disposing of waste poorly, and when it rains, the heavy metals seep into our water system.”
He stressed the need for authorities to prioritise the protection and restoration of water catchment areas to prevent further contamination.
Dr. Braimah’s comments add to growing concerns over environmental degradation and its impact on Ghana’s access to safe drinking water.
