By Rihana Adam, GNA
Accra, Oct 2, GNA – Ghana participated in global observance of World Rivers Day, emphasizing the vital importance of rivers for human existence and the necessity of united efforts to safeguard aquatic ecosystems.
World Rivers Day is a worldwide event held on the fourth Sunday of September annually, aimed at highlighting the importance of rivers and promoting their care and preservation.
At the celebration of the 2025 World Rivers Day in Accra, Dr. Mawuli Lumor, Head of Policy, Planning, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation (PPRME) at the Water Resources Commission, stated that rivers continue to be essential to society, supporting agriculture, energy, fishing, and communities throughout the nation.
He mentioned that this year's theme, "Our Rivers, Our Future," highlights the connection between individuals and their duty to protect rivers for coming generations.
Today serves as a reminder of the vital role that rivers have in our lives; it emphasizes the need for practical actions to increase awareness among both rural and national communities regarding the significance, challenges, and potential solutions related to water.
There is a requirement to create new approaches in policies and initiatives to tackle present and upcoming issues.
He highlighted the struggles of millions residing in slums and rural areas who lack access to clean drinking water, proper sanitation, and enough food, emphasizing the need to address water-related disparities.
He reconfirmed the responsibility of overseeing the sustainable management and utilization of the nation's water resources.
He mentioned that the Commission had finished engaging with stakeholders regarding the creation of Water Usage Regulations and Borehole Drilling and Licensing Regulations, which will be presented to Parliament for approval.
He called on organizations, local groups, and people to implement effective water management, preserve water supplies, and take part in conservation initiatives.
We hope that all pertinent organizations in Ghana will work together with us on this endeavor, let us all adopt positive transformation for our rivers by focusing on preservation and eco-friendly methods.
Nana Amponsah Kwaa IV, the leader of Atwima Kwanwoma and a member of the Water Resources Commission, emphasized in his opening speech the significance of rivers for human existence, ecological balance, and economic development.
He mentioned that major rivers like the Ayensu, Pra, Ankobra, and Tano supply drinking water, aid agricultural activities, and have cultural and spiritual importance for numerous communities.
He mentioned that illegal mining, deforestation, and uncontrolled waste dumping have caused numerous water sources to become contaminated and damaged, with increasing chemical levels presenting significant health dangers to local populations.
He mentioned that the government has introduced various programs to address the issue, "the National Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat, set up under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is responsible for directing intelligence and operational actions against illegal mining."
He mentioned that the ministry had designated rivers and forest reserves as secure areas, granting security forces increased power to combat unlawful activities.
He emphasized that protecting rivers cannot be the sole responsibility of the government, "communities were encouraged to see themselves as guardians of the rivers flowing through their territories."
Dr. Deborah Darko, an engineer from Ghana's CSIR Water Research, informed the public that rivers are more than just bodies of water, highlighting their importance in supporting communities, ecosystems, and the national economy.
She warned, nevertheless, that Ghana's rivers face significant risks due to pollution, unlawful mining activities, and inadequate waste disposal.
She called on decision-makers, organizations, and local groups to recommit themselves to protecting rivers, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Beata Awinpoka Akanyani, the head of the Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS), praised the government for showing courageous leadership in promoting environmentally friendly water management.
She highlighted her organization's dedication to advancing sustainable water management by implementing a system that emphasizes fairness, environmental responsibility, and participatory governance.
He stated, "with a network of more than 80 members collaborating with all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), she mentioned that the group will keep engaging communities, implementing environmental regulations, and promoting climate resilience."
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
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