In a rare and striking protest, several sachet water vendors, popularly known as 'pure water' hawkers, took to the streets to demonstrate against the ongoing galamsey (illegal mining) activities.
According to the 'pure water' hawkers, the ongoing galamsey activities is having a negative impact on their businesses.
The hawkers were seen holding polluted sachets of water as a stark representation of the devastating effects illegal mining has had on Ghana’s water bodies.
The protesters expressed deep concern over the continued degradation of water resources caused by galamsey, noting that the contamination of rivers and streams has disrupted their supply of clean water for packaging.
"The quality of water has declined severely, and this is affecting both production and sales of sachet water," said one of the hawkers, highlighting the broader impact on the industry.
The hawkers called on the government to take immediate action to halt all illegal mining activities, which they believe is a critical step in protecting the country's water sources.
They warned that the survival of their businesses, and the entire sachet water industry, hangs in the balance unless swift measures are taken to restore water quality.
This protest comes at a time when many sectors are feeling the strain from environmental damage caused by galamsey, with industries like agriculture and fishing also experiencing challenges due to polluted water bodies.
The hawkers urged authorities to prioritize water sustainability and enforce stricter regulations to preserve vital resources for future generations.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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