The Member of Parliament for Tano North in the Ahafo Region, Gideon Boako, has raised serious concern over the deteriorating state of the Tano River at Tanoso, warning that illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, are severely polluting the water body.
He expressed his concerns during a clean-up exercise organised by the Tanoso Youth Association, where he joined residents in highlighting environmental challenges affecting the area.
According to the MP, the level of pollution in the river poses a significant threat to both human health and livelihoods, stressing that urgent action is needed to protect the water source.
Dr. Boako further claimed that relevant state authorities, including security agencies, are aware of the illegal mining activities and those allegedly behind them, but have failed to take decisive action to curb the situation.
He therefore called on the Regional Security Council (Regional Security Council), chaired by the Regional Minister, and the Municipal Security Council (Municipal Security Council), led by the Municipal Chief Executive, to intensify efforts to address the galamsey menace immediately.
Dr. Boako noted that the current state of the river is alarming and requires coordinated intervention to prevent further environmental degradation.
He also urged the Tano North Municipal Assembly to strengthen sanitation management in the area, arguing that periodic clean-up exercises alone are not enough to resolve deep-rooted sanitation challenges.
The MP suggested a more structured and professional approach to sanitation management, referencing past systems where dedicated organisations were contracted to handle waste management services.
