The Water Resources Commission has cautioned Ghanaians to test the quality of ground water before use.

According to the Commission, 41 percent of Ghanaians depend on groundwater for their water supply.

Contamination of such water sources is however a concern.

Groundwater dependency is highest in Northern Ghana due to low seasonal availability of surface water.

The Water Resources Commission has noted that groundwater is safe. However, illegal mining in some regions has contaminated surface water with chemicals.

Consumers are therefore advised to frequently test the quality of drinking water to avoid poisoning.

"Generally, groundwater in the Ashanti region is largely potable except for few locations within Birimian and granitoids, where there are problems with levels of iron, nitrate, manganese and arsenic.

With regards to the Obuasi municipality, the mining of gold from the Birimian rock which is rich in arsenopyrite ore leads to the of arsenic (As), which could contaminate groundwater resources.

"While assuring the public that boreholes in the Obuasi municipality are safe, we're encouraging people to regularly check the quality of water before consuming," Head of Pra Basin, Water Resources Commission, Abena Dufie Wiredu Bremang, said.

Speaking at the 2022 World Water Day celebration at Obuasi in the Ashanti region, the Commission entreated Ghanaians to access support in checking for the quality of drinking water.

The program was on the theme: “Groundwater: Making the invisible visible".

"Just looking at water that is clear does not show that it's a good quality water. We're encouraging Ghanaians to patronize recognized institutions that check for the quality of drinking water," she added.

Meanwhile Nana Kwadu Kwakye II, Akwamuhene of Fomena, has urged chiefs to desist from giving out lands to illegal miners.

He has promised to clamp down on illegal miners destroying water bodies in his community.

"Galamsey is not the only solution to poverty. Nananoms have a lot to do to protect our water bodies, because if we keep destroying our water bodies, we may have to import water in the near future," he noted.

The Senior Manager of Environment at AngloGold Ashanti, Nikon Asante stressed on the need to, “actively sensitize, mobilize, and educate the youth and communities on the importance of groundwater".

The program was organized by AngloGold Ashanti in partnership with the Obuasi Municipal Assembly, Obuasi East District Assembly, Ghana Water Company Limited, Veolia Company Limited, Water Resources Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana Education Services and Rural Relief.