Residents along the banks of the River Pra are raising alarm over a surge in stomach upsets and birth deformities linked to the polluted river.
The illegal mining activities, locally known as “galamsey,” have led to a dangerous saturation of chemicals in the water, making it unfit for consumption or fishing.
Despite the risks, some community members continue to drink the contaminated water.
“Most of them are complaining of stomach upset,” a concerned resident shared.
“Some are also saying that pregnant women in the communities are giving birth to deformed babies,” ABC News GH Reporter Jacob Baah reported live from River Pra in the Western Region.
“The effects of the tainted water have caused widespread panic among locals, who are heavily reliant on the river for both their livelihoods and daily needs.
The polluted river has turned brown, severely impacting economic activities such as fishing, which many in the region depend on for survival.
Affected areas include Daboase, Shama, Obuase, Dunkwa, Kyikyiwere, and Tarkwa.
Jacob Baah confirmed the distress of the communities.
“The river that has turned brown. Most of the people can fish in the river as part of the economic activities in the area.”
Residents are calling on the government to intervene as the health crisis worsens.
The pollution has spread across multiple rivers, including the Enu, Oda, Afram, Subeng, Agogo, and Ankobra, all severely affected by illegal mining activities.
