The ongoing water crisis in Agona Swedru has entered its third week, raising fears of a possible cholera outbreak as residents struggle to cope with the shortage.
Agona West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Eric Gyamfi Odoom, admitted the situation had become dire, blaming challenges at the Agona Kwanyako Water Works for the disruption in supply. He assured residents that government was working to restore water flow but warned that communities must remain vigilant to avoid a public health emergency.
“The risk of cholera is real, especially in times like this when water is scarce. I am appealing to everyone to keep their surroundings clean and stop indiscriminate dumping of refuse,” the MCE said during a meeting with chiefs, market women, and sanitation officials after a seven-hour cleanup exercise in the municipality.
As a temporary measure, the Assembly, in collaboration with Agona West MP, Mrs. Tina Ofori Dangbey, has deployed water tankers to supply critical institutions, including the Swedru Government Hospital, senior high schools, and health centres.
Traditional leaders have also stepped in. Nana Kweku Esieni V, Regent of Agona Swedru, announced that the Swedruman Council of Chiefs would lead a cleanup exercise around River Akora on September 13 to help protect the community’s water sources.
He cautioned residents against dumping waste into gutters, especially on market days, warning that chiefs would now deal sternly with sanitation offenders.
Municipal Environmental Health Director, Mr. Mark Dzodzodze, added that shop owners who fail to participate in future cleanup exercises would face sanctions.
Meanwhile, Mr. Gyamfi Odoom lamented the destructive role of illegal mining (galamsey) in worsening the water situation, saying the practice continues to compromise supply for over one million people in Agona Swedru and surrounding areas.
Until the crisis is resolved, health and sanitation authorities say prevention will depend largely on residents maintaining strict hygiene to avoid waterborne diseases.
