Abuakwa South MP Dr Kingsley Agyemang is worried over a deepening water crisis in his constituency, attributing it to the impact of illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

The Eastern Region, where his constituency is located, has witnessed the pollution and depletion of many of its once-reliable water sources due to unregulated mining operations.

In a recent interview, Dr Agyemang highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that numerous communities are struggling to access clean water for both domestic and commercial use. Asiakwa, in particular, has been hit hardest by the crisis.

“The situation in Asiakwa is dire. There is no water in the area, and residents now rely entirely on sachet water,” he stated.

“My father, who is the chief farmer there, depends on sachet water every week just to mix medicine for spraying his farm. That shows how serious things have become.”

Dr Agyemang revealed that rivers such as Supon and Afrancho, which once served as crucial sources of water, have either dried up or become severely polluted.

He stressed that the consequences are particularly alarming for Asiakwa, which serves as the municipality’s largest market hub.

“Even animals can’t find water to drink. This is not a political issue—it’s not about the NPP or NDC. We are all to blame,” he emphasised.

“Just last month, I facilitated the drilling of a mechanised borehole in the area. Children now have to walk long distances just to fetch water from it.”

Despite the bleak circumstances, Dr Agyemang reaffirmed his commitment to finding long-term solutions.

He underscored the need to act within the confines of the law and urged residents to take an active role in protecting local natural resources.

“We will do our best to resolve the water crisis. This issue cannot be ignored. But the people of Asiakwa must also understand that no one is above the law,” he added.

He concluded by assuring the community of ongoing efforts to identify and develop more sustainable water sources, including additional mechanised boreholes, to help alleviate the strain caused by galamsey activities.