Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the country’s rivers and water resources as Ghana joined the global community to mark the maiden launch of the 2025 World Rivers Day in Accra on Wednesday, September 10.
The Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Hon.Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, said rivers are central to Ghana’s heritage, economy and the survival of future generations. Speaking on the theme “Our Rivers, Our Future,” he highlighted achievements such as the establishment of the Water Resources Commission and expanded access to clean water through international partnerships.
Hon. Adjei, however, raised concerns over illegal mining, agricultural runoff, pollution, and climate change. Quoting United Nations Environment Programme data, he warned that one-third of the world’s rivers are polluted, threatening nearly 3 billion people. “Our renewable water availability has declined from about 3,000 cubic meters per person per year in the 1960s to 1,650 cubic meters today,” he cautioned, adding that Ghana risks becoming a water-stressed country if urgent action is not taken.
He announced plans to introduce new legislation to protect riparian areas, strengthen enforcement against polluters, and intensify the fight against illegal mining by offering alternative livelihoods. He also promised investment in water infrastructure and treatment facilities. “Water and climate are inseparable,” he stressed, urging Ghanaians to treat rivers as sacred treasures.
Representing the Acting Executive Secretary of the Water Resources Commission, Dr. Bernadette Adjei, Head of Licensing and Compliance, emphasized that rivers sustain agriculture, industry, culture and community life. She cautioned against illegal mining, deforestation and unsustainable urban activities. “This celebration is a call to action to restore and manage our rivers wisely for present and future generations,” she said.
The Head of Policy, Planning, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Commission, Dr. Mawuli Lumor explained that initiatives such as media engagements, school outreach, river tracing, signages, and buffer zone restoration will mobilize nationwide action. He noted that schools in catchment areas like Volta, Pra, Tano, Densu and Ankobra will be engaged to instill early conservation awareness.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Hydrological Authority, Dr. Sylvester Darko, echoed the minister’s concerns, describing rivers as the “lifeline of the nation.” He warned that indiscriminate waste disposal, encroachment and galamsey are worsening pollution while climate change increases flooding pressures.
