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June 15, 2026
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Over 50% of Barekese forest cover lost as reservoir capacity drops by 30% – GWL
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Policy
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Key Points
- Ghana Water Limited (GWL) warns that extensive forest degradation around the Barekese Dam threatens water supply to the Greater Kumasi metropolis.
- Over 50% of the forest cover has been lost, leading to severe siltation that has reduced the reservoir's storage capacity by nearly 30%.
- Illegal logging, indiscriminate farming, bush burning, sand winning, and expanding human settlements are identified as major drivers of the destruction.
- GWL has partnered with the Forestry Commission and local assembly to plant over 5,000 tree seedlings to restore forest cover and protect the water source.
- The restoration efforts aim to improve water quality, reduce treatment burdens, enhance climate resilience, and ensure long-term water security for Kumasi.
Why This Matters
This situation is critical for Ghana as the Barekese Dam provides potable water for Kumasi, the country's second-largest city. The degradation threatens water security, public health, and sustainable development for a major urban center. Failure to address this could lead to a severe water crisis with significant socio-economic repercussions.
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