University of Ghana Professor Warns of 'Groundwater Galamsey' Crisis Threatening National Water Security

Prof. Yvonne Sena Akosua Loh of the Department of Earth Science at the University of Ghana has raised an urgent alarm over a burgeoning environmental crisis she terms 'Groundwater Galamsey.' This phenomenon refers to the widespread, unregulated drilling of boreholes across the country without adequate scientific oversight or adherence to hydrogeological standards. As many Ghanaians turn to private boreholes to compensate for unreliable public water supplies, the proliferation of poorly constructed wells is creating a hidden threat to the nation’s long-term water security and public health.

Unlike traditional illegal mining, which leaves visible scars on the landscape and causes immediate turbidity in river bodies, groundwater galamsey is a silent crisis occurring beneath the surface. Prof. Loh highlights that because the damage is not immediately visible to the naked eye, it often goes unnoticed by both the public and regulators. However, the consequences are severe; improper drilling can lead to the cross-contamination of aquifers, the introduction of pathogens into drinking water systems, and the rapid depletion of underground reserves. Without professional hydrogeological assessments to determine safe yields and site suitability, these boreholes risk becoming permanent conduits for pollution.

The professor emphasizes that a science-based approach to groundwater management is no longer optional but a necessity. She advocates for responsible drilling practices that include proper documentation, construction standards, and the involvement of certified hydrogeologists. Currently, a significant portion of borehole projects bypass regulatory requirements, creating a scenario where short-term water access is prioritized over the long-term sustainability of the resource. This lack of accountability endangers the current population and potentially compromises the water needs of future generations.

To mitigate this threat, Prof. Loh calls for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter government enforcement of water regulations and a massive public awareness campaign. There is an urgent need for a shift in behavior toward professionalized drilling services and the mandatory implementation of hydrogeological surveys for all new projects. By addressing the groundwater galamsey phenomenon today, Ghana can protect its vital underground resources and ensure that the pursuit of water independence does not result in a self-inflicted environmental catastrophe.