Threat to Ghana's Water Resources: Illegal Mining (Galamsey)

This paper discusses the causes and effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s water resources, and
suggests possible ways of resolving the menace through integrated water resources management
principles to ensure water sustainability and availability. Extensive desktop study in relation to illegal
mining and water resources were done. The paper recognizes that water is mining’s most common
casualty and that in terms of galamsey the impact is immeasurable, because of its uncontrollable and
clandestine nature. It also acknowledges that water is a vital but vulnerable resource whose
invaluability cannot be compromised in the face of galamsey. It also recognizes that the problem of
galamsey cannot be resolved by one institution; rather it requires collaborative and participatory
approach, involving all stake holders in these sectors. Effort made must be backed by political will and
commitment. Legalizing galamsey and setting-up of the right institutions such as galamsey
board/authority at the district levels to regulate galamsey activities under the supervision of WRC,
EPA and Ghana chamber of mines will be very useful. Finally, education on environmental and social
cost on trading natural resources will go a long way to curb the menace.