• 05 May, 2025
• Classic Ghana
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Galamsey Fight: Dwenase water polluted, Kyebi Apapam stays clean through resistance

A study by University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) has revealed stark contrasts in water quality between Dwenase and Kyebi Apapam, both in the Eastern region. 

The study highlighted the impact of illegal mining on water bodies. 

Water samples collected from the Birim River at Apapam and Dwenase showed that Apapam’s water remains clean due to strong community resistance against illegal mining, while Dwenase’s water is visibly polluted, underscoring the urgent need for intensified efforts to combat galamsey. 

This was shared during an engagement with the residents of Kyebi Apapam organised by UESD, through its Water Resources and Aquaculture departments, to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal mining. 

The initiative, sponsored by Technology Without Borders—a German nonprofit focused on sustainability—was conducted in partnership with UESD and the Queen Esther Wisdom and Intellectual Parade of the Royalhouse Chapel International. 

The campaign sought to educate residents on the devastating effects of illegal mining on the environment and public health. 

Addressing the gathering, Professor Abass Gibrilla, UESD emphasized the importance of sustainable mining practices, noting that while Ghana is endowed with valuable resources such as gold and diamonds, responsible extraction was crucial to preserving the ecosystem for future generations. 

“Natural resources can be exploited without degrading the environment,” he stated, referencing UESD research conducted across Western, Central, and parts of the Eastern regions. 

The studies revealed severe environmental damage caused by galamsey operations, including deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation. 

The outreach programmed forms part of UESD’s broader commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, encouraging communities to adopt responsible mining practices that safeguard natural resources while promoting economic growth. 

Professor Gibrilla highlighted the risks associated with the use of toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide in illegal mining. 

These substances pollute water bodies, contaminate food sources, and compromise air quality, leading to severe health issues including kidney, liver, and lung damage. 

He warned that exposure to heavy metals from galamsey activities has been linked to birth defects and increased cases of dialysis patients. 

Stressing the urgent need for community action, he encouraged parents and students to consider UESD in Somanya for environmental and sustainable development education, positioning the university as a path toward building a healthier, sustainable future. 

Perthuella Nyarko Clarkson, winner of the Queen Esther 2025 Pageant, encouraged students to prioritize their education, pursue their dreams, and nurture their talents for personal and community development. 

The Chief of Kyebi Apapam, Osaberima Okogyeaman Apaggyafori V, praised UESD for its efforts, but expressing concern over the widespread environmental degradation caused by illegal mining. 

He criticized what he called careless issuance of mining licenses and political promises that enable galamsey activities. 

While Apaggyafori V has banned mining in Apapam to protect the Birim River, according to him, neighbouring traditional authorities have permitted mining, worsening environmental destruction. 

Mrs. Samuel Bampoe Boateng, the Assembly Member for Apapam, described the session as an eye-opener, which underscored the importance of reclaiming degraded land through reforestation to restore air quality and natural vegetation. 

Source: GNA 

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