By Mavis Paintsil
Renowned investigative journalist Erastus Asare Donkor has sounded the alarm on the devastating impact of illegal mining, or galamsey, on Ghana’s river bodies, describing the situation as a “collective national failure”.
Delivering the keynote address at CDD-Ghana’s 20th Kronti Ne Akwamu lecture, Donkor lamented the deteriorating state of Ghana’s rivers, including the Pra, Offin, Ankobra, Birim, Tano, Densu, Ayensu, Butre, Ashyire, Offin, Oda, Bia, Bissi, Oweri, and Atronsu.
“When you travel across Ghana today, our rivers tell the story of our failure,” Donkor said. “Once sources of life, they now flow like wounds across our conscience, turned brown, heavy, and lifeless.”
Donkor’s investigative documentary, “Poisoned for Gold,” revealed toxic levels of heavy metals in Ghana’s rivers, including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and lead, exceeding WHO standards by over 200%.
Multiple studies by Ghanaian universities have confirmed these findings, highlighting the severe risks to communities and the environment.
Despite awareness of the crisis, Donkor noted that it continues unabated, attributing it to irresponsible mining practices, political interference, and a culture of impunity.
He calls for strong political will, structural reforms, and increased public awareness to address the issue.
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