The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a stern warning regarding the alarming rise in the packaging and sale of a product labeled as “galamsey water,” reportedly linked to illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey” in Ghana.
Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive of the Food and Drugs Authority signed a press release emphasizing the dangers associated with this illegal practice, which threatens public health and safety.
The FDA stated, “The packaging of unwholesome water not only undermines public health and safety but also poses significant health risks to the population.”
According to the FDA’s press release, the sachet water labeled as “galamsey water” is likely sourced from areas affected by illegal mining activities. The release warned that this unwholesome water, contaminated with dangerous pollutants from mining sites, is now being packaged and sold to unsuspecting consumers.
The FDA emphasized that licensed manufacturing facilities for sachet water production are strictly regulated under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits them from producing or packaging unapproved products.
Any deviation from these regulations, such as using a facility licensed for sachet water production to package “galamsey water” or other unwholesome products, is a violation of the law and poses an immediate threat to consumer safety.
The Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), is Ghana’s primary legislation governing public health, including the safety standards for food, water, and drugs.
Under the Act, the FDA is charged with the responsibility to protect public health by regulating the manufacture, distribution, and sale of food and beverages, including water. This regulation mandates that any water meant for human consumption must meet specific safety and quality standards to prevent harm to consumers.
The FDA warned that individuals or entities caught participating in such activities would face stringent penalties, including fines, closure of facilities, and possible imprisonment.
FDA’s Collaboration with Security Agencies
The FDA also announced that it is working closely with law enforcement agencies to track down the individuals and entities involved in the illegal packaging and sale of “galamsey water.” This coordinated effort aims to stop the distribution of contaminated water and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“The FDA is actively collaborating with security agencies to identify and apprehend those involved in these illegal activities.”
Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive of the Food and Drugs Authority
The FDA’s message was clear: any individual or organization found to be involved in the packaging, distribution, or sale of “galamsey water” will face severe consequences.
In its statement, the FDA also appealed to the public to play an active role in curbing this illegal and dangerous practice. The agency urged citizens to avoid consuming or distributing water that may be contaminated and to report any suspicious activity related to the packaging and sale of unwholesome water.
“We urge the public to refrain from engaging in or supporting the packaging of water contaminated by galamsey or any other unwholesome sources. These practices should be reported to the FDA for immediate action,”
Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive of the Food and Drugs Authority
The FDA encouraged individuals to utilize its hotline and other communication channels to report any cases of illegal water production and distribution.
The FDA pledged to continue its inspections of water production facilities and to take legal action against those who fail to comply with health and safety regulations.
“The FDA remains committed to safeguarding public health and safety. We will continue to monitor and enforce compliance to protect the lives of all Ghanaians.”
Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive of the Food and Drugs Authority
This warning from the FDA served as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to health regulations and the potentially devastating consequences of illegal activities that compromise public safety.
The authority’s swift action highlighted its dedication to protecting the well-being of the population and cracking down on those who endanger public health.
