In alignment with the global observance of World Water Day, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has called upon citizens to prioritize water conservation efforts, emphasizing the critical role of water in fostering peace and sustainable development.
The Tema Regional office of GWL marked the occasion with a vibrant durbar last Friday under the theme "Leveraging Water for Peace." Attended by consumers, representatives from the Tema Manhean Water Sellers Association, and students from local schools, the event underscored the significance of equitable water access in promoting social harmony.
Amidu Musah, the Tema Regional Chief Manager of GWL, stressed that unequal access to water resources could exacerbate conflicts and urged communities to collaborate in safeguarding freshwater reservoirs. Factors such as climate change and population growth, he noted, are exacerbating the strain on water sources, necessitating concerted conservation efforts.
In response to these challenges, GWL has implemented water demand management strategies in communities like Tema Manhean to ensure fair distribution. Musah urged consumers to adopt water-saving practices, discouraging activities like excessive lawn watering that contribute to wastage.
Furthermore, Musah expressed concerns over the detrimental impact of illegal mining and sand excavation on freshwater reserves, necessitating increased investment in water treatment chemicals. He highlighted the rising costs associated with utilizing potent chemicals to address contamination caused by mining activities near water sources.
"The cost of chemicals for treating water has gone up because the company has to use more expensive and potent chemicals like polymer instead of alum to treat the raw water," Musah stated.
As part of their conservation efforts, GWL urged citizens to report instances of water wastage, burst pipes, and leakages to facilitate prompt repairs and mitigate resource loss.
The call to action from Ghana Water Limited underscores the imperative of collective action in preserving water resources for present and future generations, aligning with the broader global agenda of sustainable development and peacebuilding.