The Central Regional Health Directorate has issued an urgent warning about a potential cholera outbreak in the Cape Coast Municipality due to an ongoing water crisis affecting several communities.

Health officials caution that if immediate action is not taken, hundreds of residents could be at risk of infection.

Frustration

Residents in areas such as Amomoma, Bonkus, Apewosika, Ola, and Nkanfoa have expressed growing frustration over the prolonged water shortage, with many forced to buy water from tanker services at high prices.

“We haven’t had water in over three months,” lamented a resident of Nkanfoa. “We are forced to buy water from tanker services, and it’s really expensive. Not everyone can afford it.”

In student-dominated areas like Amomoma, Bonkus, and Apewosika, the crisis is taking a toll on academic life.

Warning

The Deputy Health Director of Public Health for the Central Region, Dr Joojo Cobinah, warned that the water shortage could create conditions ripe for a cholera outbreak if not urgently addressed.

He cautioned that if immediate interventions are not made to resolve this water shortage, more people will fall victim to the disease.

He urged residents to observe strict hygiene practices, including drinking clean water and proper hand washing. He also called on duty bearers to provide alternative water supplies to avert any possible surge.

As of January 26, 2025, 20 out of the 22 districts in the Central Region recorded cholera cases, with a total of 14 deaths. Out of 1,929 suspected cases, 180 have been confirmed.

Pressing issue

The water crisis in Cape Coast, is a pressing issue. One of the main causes is illegal mining activities (galamsey) along the Pra River, which contaminates the water source, making it challenging for the Ghana Water Limited (GWL) to extract raw water for treatment.

Another factor contributing to the water shortage is the inadequate water supply infrastructure. The existing infrastructure is struggling to meet the growing demand for water in the area.