Science and Technology Take Center Stage in Ghana’s Fight Against Water Pollution

Mohamed Adam Yakubu

Ghana is turning to nuclear and space technologies as part of its strategy to confront the country’s worsening water crisis, largely driven by pollution, climate change, and illegal mining.

This focus on science-driven solutions was underscored at a high-level webinar in Accra on Monday, marking the 2025 Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa. Hosted by the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), the event explored how advanced technologies can transform water resources management under the theme: “Water Resources Management: The Role of Nuclear Science and Space Technology.”

Representing the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, the Director of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kwamena Quaison, stressed that Ghana can no longer rely solely on conventional methods to protect its rivers and lakes.
“Isotope hydrology and earth observation tools are enabling us to track contamination and safeguard water resources. These technologies are indispensable in the fight against galamsey and indiscriminate pollution,” he said.

GAEC has been applying isotope hydrology to trace water sources and detect pollutants, while also using remote sensing to monitor large-scale changes in river systems. Beyond research, the government is pushing new policies such as the Ghana Nuclear Power Programme, which includes water desalination, and the forthcoming Ghana Space Policy, which aims to elevate the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute into a regional hub.

GAEC’s Director-General, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, called for urgent investment in science to make these technologies accessible and impactful. “We cannot achieve water security without sustainable financing for innovation,” he emphasized, urging government to dedicate at least one percent of GDP to research.

Experts also delivered technical presentations on isotope hydrology and remote sensing applications, further demonstrating how science can help address Ghana’s twin challenge of water scarcity and pollution.

The Day of Scientific Renaissance of Africa, observed annually on June 30, celebrates the role of science and technology in the continent’s development. In Ghana, the event rotates between GAEC and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

This year’s commemoration drew scientists, policymakers, academics, and civil society, all converging on one message: science and technology must drive the solutions to protect Ghana’s most precious resource—water.