As President Mahama intensifies, the Almighty River Ankobra has recovered and become clean once more.

Following notable improvements in the condition of the once very polluted River Ankobra, communities in the Western Region are celebrating.

The change is the result of President John Mahama’s redoubled efforts to combat illegal mining, or galamsey, through a revitalised government initiative.

Due to unregulated galamsey operations along its banks, the River Ankobra had long been a symbol of Ghana’s environmental degradation, with its waters turning brown and unfit for farming, fishing, or drinking. Despite numerous interventions, the situation worsened, leaving residents who had previously relied on the river for their livelihoods with little hope.

Reports from environmental groups and local residents confirm that sections of the river now show clearer waters, sparking optimism that sustained efforts can fully restore the river’s ecosystem. Community leaders expressed relief, noting that for the first time in years, children could be seen playing near the river without fear of contamination.

Officials from the government However, the most recent operation, which was spearheaded by state security services in coordination with local authorities and the Water Resources Commission, has started to show results. With the help of community awareness campaigns and the deployment of security task forces to hotspots around the Western Region, President Mahama ordered a more stringent implementation of anti-galamsey laws.

Outlined how the recovery fits into a larger national plan to prevent illicit mining from affecting important water sources. President Mahama reaffirmed his dedication to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and threatened to take severe action against anyone or any group engaged in galamsey.

While praising the advancements, environmental experts have warned that consistency will be necessary to sustain the improvements. Although apparent progress is heartening, they emphasised that complete recovery is only possible if communities, chiefs, and government agencies continue to collaborate.

River Ankobra’s recovery is being celebrated as an example of what can be achieved when strong enforcement and political will are combined. For years, we believed the river would never return, but now we have hope once more, as one local said.

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