The Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Mutawakilu Adam, has urged traditional rulers to take the lead in Ghana’s ongoing galamsey fight, stressing that their involvement is essential to protect the nation’s water resources.
Speaking at a meeting between President John Dramani Mahama and members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Mr. Adam emphasized that without the active participation of chiefs, the government’s anti-galamsey efforts would not yield lasting results.
According to him, traditional leaders exercise great influence over land and community affairs, making them vital partners in combating illegal mining.
“When it comes to illegal mining, the chiefs and the communities are the first people that must stand up against it because it has a direct impact on us,” he explained.
Mr. Adam further revealed that most illegal mining operations begin with some form of engagement with traditional authorities.
“There is no illegal miner who goes to a community without first greeting the chief. In Ghana, chiefs are the custodians of land,” he said. “That is why they must fully support the government to end galamsey.”
He warned that the persistent pollution of rivers and streams by galamsey operators is already affecting GWL’s operations and could soon lead to a major water shortage.
“If we don’t fight illegal mining, it will get worse. We won’t have water to drink,” he cautioned.
The GWL boss disclosed that the company is spending heavily on water treatment, using costly chemicals like poly-electrolyte and introducing horizontal pumps in areas where traditional systems cannot handle high turbidity caused by mining waste.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Adam acknowledged the efforts of the government, particularly the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, but maintained that lasting success depends on chiefs taking ownership of the problem.
“The president is determined to fight galamsey, and that is why we are all here to know the direction we are heading,” he stated. “But we need the support of Ghanaians, especially the chiefs, to make this fight successful.”
