Builsa South: Mercury from galamsey pollutes Sissili River, fishes harmed
Earlier in April this year, residents of found dead fish in the Fumbisi-Weisi stream in the Bulsa South district which resulted in a formal investigation to determine the cause the incident.
The Veterinary Services Directorate and the Fisheries Commission in Northern Ghana have confirmed mercury contamination in dead fish discovered in the Sissili River, located in the Builsa South District.
Earlier in April this year, residents of found dead fish in the Fumbisi-Weisi stream in the Bulsa South district which resulted in a formal investigation to determine the cause the incident.
Dr. Standley Hughes-Obresi, head of the Fish Health Unit of the Veterinary Services Directorate presenting the findings of the investigation to the Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga on Monday, May 19, attributed the contamination of the stream to agrochemicals and heavy metals released from illegal mining activities taking place upstream.
Dr. Hughes explained that water and fish samples collected from the river were tested by the Ghana Standards Authority, which confirmed the presence of mercury.
“The researchers collected samples from the field, and laboratory tests showed lesions on the liver and intestines of the fish, as well as haemorrhages in the testes,” he stated.
He further warned that prolonged exposure to mercury poses serious health risks to both humans and animals, including the potential for cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Dr. Hughes cautioned residents living along the Sissili River to avoid consuming fish or drinking water directly from the river until further notice.
Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga expressed appreciation to the research team for their swift investigation. He assured them of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council’s (RCC) support in addressing the issue.
“I believe it is important to sensitise communities around the area to understand the potential dangers associated with dead fish and to take necessary precautions,” he said.
The Minister also called on the researchers to share the full report once finalised and reiterated the RCC’s readiness to collaborate in mitigating the impact of the contamination.
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