Name: Fedora Oteng

Class: 2026 class

Date: October 9, 2026

WILL GHANA SOON BE IMPORTING WATER?

In recent years, Ghana has seen a significant rise in illegal mining commonly known as
“galamsey”. Despite the severe consequences of this activity, the government has remained largely
silent, taking minimal action. Although those involved in galamsey claim it is their only source of
income, the environmental damage caused is nothing to write home about especially to water
bodies and land. This type of mining known as surface mining has become even more hazardous
due to the use of dangerous chemicals, particularly, mercury.

Mercury is a substance that can have beneficial uses, but in this case, it is being misused by the
miners. It is poured into water bodies and onto land in an effort to extract gold. The result is that,
even with filtration, the water becomes undrinkable. Approximately, 80% of Ghana’s water bodies
have been affected by this destructive activity.

Before elections, political parties often promise to end galamsey but these empty promises have
been made, and yet, people continue to believe them and vote. What is even more disheartening is
that, many citizens remain passive, doing little to stop this injustice. Although some individuals
and groups are actively working to end galamsey, the government’s inaction persists.

When you turn on the news, especially local broadcasts, galamsey frequently dominates the
headlines, yet many people change the channel and look away. This is a fight that requires the
support of the entire nation. If we continue to ignore the problem, we may soon face a future where
we lack clean water to drink. It is frustrating that people only seem to blame the government after
the damage has already been done but it is not too late. This issue can be addressed now before it
becomes irreversible. If future generations ask us what we were doing while our environment was
being destroyed, what will we say? Blaming the government will not be enough. We will also have
to answer for our own inaction.

There is an African proverb which states that, “if an animal will bite you, it comes from own cloth.”
This means that, the problem is close to us and we cannot ignore it, yet, whenever people attempt
to address galamsey, the government often finds ways to silence them, which is deeply troubling.
In September 2024, about 53 people were arrested for protesting against galamsey and they were
punished for standing up against what is right.

Will this country rise in the eyes of God if such injustices continue? If we fail to act, we do not
know what the future holds. People are told to lead by example, but it is clear that the government
is not willing to do so. The thought of Ghana having to import water may seem absurd now, but if
we do not take actions, it could soon become our reality.

In conclusion, the people of Ghana must rise and protest against galamsey or our future will be
devastating. We must unite and fight to protect our land and water for ourselves and future
generations.