ACCRA – The Ghana energy sector is facing an escalating threat from illegal mining activities, with severe implications for the country’s power supply and national security.
Parliament’s Energy Committee has raised alarm over the growing destruction of power installations, particularly those belonging to the Ghana Grid Company (Gridco) and the Bui Power Authority.
Deputy Ranking Member of the Energy Committee, Collins Adomako-Mensah, revealed troubling developments during a recent discussion.
According to Adomako-Mensah, illegal miners, commonly referred to as “galamsey” operators, have increasingly targeted critical energy infrastructure, endangering the country’s ability to meet its power demands.
Gridco, one of Ghana’s major power distribution companies, has reported a surge in damage to its pylons. The illegal miners are not only encroaching on power lines but also digging around pylons, which could compromise their structural integrity. This ongoing sabotage presents a dire risk of power outages, leaving many parts of the country vulnerable to disruptions.
Adomako-Mensah also highlighted the deteriorating condition of the Bui Dam, which is directly impacted by galamsey activities. Water bodies, crucial to the dam’s operation, are being contaminated and disrupted by illegal mining. The Bui Power Authority has already faced significant operational challenges due to the adverse effects of these illegal operations.
“When we were engaging with other stakeholders, two critical issues came up. One was galamsey, and its heavy toll on the energy sector is undeniable,” stated Adomako-Mensah. “Gridco has complained about their pylons being targeted. Additionally, the water situation at Bui is worsening due to galamsey activity surrounding the water bodies.”
The Energy Committee also expressed grave concern over the encroachment on the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCO) pipeline. Adomako-Mensah described this as a significant national security risk, citing the potential threat to the Volta River Authority’s operations.
Source: metrotvonline.com
