Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project (GLRSSMP)
The Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project (GLRSSMP) is a vital multi-agency initiative designed to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable water resource management across selected catchments and river basins in Ghana. The project is being implemented through two key components—one led by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the other by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR). The Water Resources Commission (WRC) plays a strategic role under both components to ensure the protection and sustainable use of Ghana’s water resources.
WRC Activities Under the EPA Component
Under the EPA-led component, the Water Resources Commission is spearheading the development of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Plans for selected basins and sub-catchments.
Completed in Phase I:
Black Volta Basin
Kulpawn and Sissili Catchments (sub-catchments of the White Volta)
Upcoming under Phase II (pending funding):
Main White Volta
Senya
Afram
These plans are crucial for promoting coordinated development, equitable water allocation, and conservation efforts across vulnerable landscapes.
WRC Activities Under the MLNR Component
The Commission is actively contributing to five major subcomponents under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources:
1. ICT Infrastructure Upgrade
Supply of laptops, desktops, and servers to enhance digital operations.
Provision of two project vehicles to support field activities across river basins.
2. Local Water Governance
Empowerment of local communities to manage water resources in their areas.
Three pilot sites per basin have been launched in the Black Volta and White Volta with upcoming pilots in Tano, Bia, Pra, and Ankobra basins.
3. One-Stop-Shop for Permitting
Development of a centralized digital platform for water permit and license applications.
Integration with EPA and Minerals Commission for streamlined approvals and compliance monitoring.
4. Development of Key Regulations
Drafting of two major legal instruments:
Buffer Zone Regulations
Effluent Discharge Regulations
These are aimed at protecting water bodies from encroachment and pollution, and were developed through stakeholder consultations held in key locations such as Tamale and Masi.
5. Water Quality Monitoring and Lab Setup
Procurement of water quality testing equipment to support the setup of a mini-laboratory for pilot monitoring programs.
Monitoring Infrastructure Installation
As part of the Commission’s effort to enhance water monitoring, water level monitoring devices have been installed at various key locations including:
- Lora
Chache
Nawumi
Yarugu
These installations contribute to data-driven water resource planning and real-time monitoring for early warning systems
Impact and Way Forward
The GLRSSMP is a testament to the power of collaboration among governmental institutions to restore degraded landscapes and regulate the water sector effectively. The Water Resources Commission remains committed to fostering resilience, promoting sustainable mining practices, and strengthening water governance across Ghana.
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