Water Resources Commission classifies 11 rivers as poor quality due to mining

The Water Resources Commission (WRC) has reported a significant deterioration in the quality of Ghana’s river bodies, with its Water Quality Index (WQI) showing a marked decline between 2023 and 2024. Monitoring data from 40 sampled stations revealed that 25 locations recorded lower scores, resulting in 11 rivers being classified as having "poor" water quality. This represents the highest number of rivers in this category since 2017, a development primarily driven by the destructive environmental impact of illegal gold mining, commonly known as galamsey.

The national average WQI score has fallen to 57.4, reflecting the widespread nature of the pollution across the country. Specific monitoring points, such as those in Daboase, have experienced particularly sharp drops in water clarity and safety. The commission’s findings underscore a direct correlation between intensified illegal mining activities and the degradation of critical water sources. These activities introduce heavy sediments and harmful chemicals into river systems, making the water increasingly difficult to manage and process for domestic or industrial use.

This environmental crisis is translating into a significant financial burden for Ghana Water Limited (GWL). The utility provider has reported a substantial rise in operational costs as it struggles to treat heavily polluted raw water to meet safety standards. To offset these mounting expenses, GWL has submitted requests for tariff increases, signaling that the costs of environmental neglect are being passed directly to consumers. The increased chemical usage and specialized equipment maintenance required to process highly turbid water have placed a severe strain on the nation's water infrastructure.

While some data from 2025 indicates a slight recovery in certain areas, the WRC emphasizes that these improvements are fragile and inconsistent. Sustained progress will require both consistent funding for environmental monitoring and more rigorous enforcement of laws against illegal mining. The commission warns that without a permanent solution to the pollution of river bodies, Ghana faces long-term risks to its water security, public health, and national economic stability.