The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, has announced that the regional security council is committed to safeguarding water bodies treated by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) for public consumption.
In line with the government’s efforts to protect these vital resources and the surrounding forest cover, the security council has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining in the region.
As part of the operation, mining equipment such as excavators and washing machines have been seized.
“We are determined to keep our water clean so that GWCL will not face challenges in providing clean water for us,” Awatey said. “As a result, we’ve formed a taskforce to lead this clampdown, and within less than a week, we’ve impounded more than ten excavators belonging to illegal miners. Rest assured, we will ensure that these miners face the law.”
Awatey made these remarks during a visit to the regional office of GWCL and several facilities supplying water to the Koforidua Metropolis.
She commended the company’s management and staff for their dedication to providing potable water to residents, while urging stronger collaboration between GWCL and the Regional Coordinating Council.
The minister also challenged GWCL management to improve water accessibility, reliability, and quality. Her visit included stops at the Densuano Old Water Works and the Bukunor Plant, which treat water from the Densu River and surrounding mountains.
Ing. Paul Akpanya, Eastern Regional Chief Manager of GWCL, expressed his appreciation for the minister’s visit and provided an update on the company’s operations, including efforts to increase water production at the Nsawam Water Treatment Plant and plans to supply water to the new Somanya Government Hospital from the Akorley Booster Station.
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