The Water Resources Commission has warned that unregulated human activities in the White Volta Basin are putting the water security of millions at serious risk.
Speaking in Bolgatanga, Mr Jesse Kazapoe highlighted that about 80 per cent of the basin’s estimated 3.5–4 million residents rely on groundwater for daily needs. Yet, illegal mining, sand winning, deforestation, and poor agricultural practices are contaminating water sources and depleting groundwater levels.
“Once groundwater is contaminated, millions of people will be left without safe water,” Mr. Kazapoe cautioned, citing deep pits dug by illegal miners and sediment-laden rivers as major threats. He noted that urban centres like Tamale face higher water treatment costs due to pollution, with up to 30 per cent of treated water being diverted just to clean systems, reducing supply for households.
Unsustainable farming along riverbanks, misuse of agrochemicals, poor waste disposal, and unregulated boreholes were also flagged as key contributors to water degradation. Deforestation for charcoal and construction further exacerbates climate impacts, reducing water availability.
Mr. Kazapoe stressed that sustainable water governance is a shared responsibility, urging communities, farmers, and local authorities to act responsibly. The WRC has initiated interventions such as catchment protection around the Vea Dam and greywater recycling in schools to mitigate pollution and promote conservation.
The engagement, part of the WRC’s Blue Deal project funded by the Dutch Water Authorities, aims to implement nature-based solutions and strengthen water governance. Dr Justice Aduko said the project also involves enskinning environmental chiefs in the Bongo Traditional Area to reinforce local environmental stewardship.
“The protection and management of water is a collective responsibility,” Dr. Aduko said, urging intensified public awareness and sustainable practices to safeguard the White Volta Basin for current and future generations.
This warning underscores the urgent need for coordinated action to preserve water quality and ensure access to safe water across northern Ghana.
