Assembly Member raises alarm over illegal dumpsite near Weija Dam

The Assembly Member for Ngleshie Amanfro, Joseph Kobina Fiamor, has stated that despite ongoing criminal prosecutions, recalcitrant waste operators continue to illegally dump refuse into critical buffer zones near the Weija Dam.

His comments follow a JoyNews investigation which exposed how large volumes of refuse dumped at the site are washed into the Ja River, before flowing into the Densu River and eventually ending up in the Weija Dam, one of the major sources of treated water for residents in Accra.

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Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, June 15, Fiamor said authorities initially attempted to halt the activities through warnings and engagement, but the operators allegedly ignored the directives.

“I reported the case, we moved to the site and gave them a letter to stop. We came back and realised that it was still ongoing. So, I went to the MCE and, together with the Municipal Health Officer, we issued them a summons letter and quickly processed them to court. As I speak to you right now, the case is in court,” he said.

According to him, the municipality acted swiftly after residents raised concerns over the worsening environmental situation and the threat posed to nearby communities.

He noted that collaborative efforts involving the Municipal Chief Executive and environmental health officials have helped reduce the dumping activities significantly, although concerns persist over continued violations.

For many residents, the issue goes beyond sanitation and speaks directly to public health and environmental safety.

The Weija Dam, which supplies treated water to several parts of Accra, has in recent years faced mounting pressure from pollution, encroachment and indiscriminate waste disposal around its catchment areas.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that such practices not only affect water quality but also contribute to flooding during heavy rains.

Despite the ongoing prosecution, some residents claim that waste collectors are still transporting refuse to the area on tricycles, especially at night and in the early hours of the day.

The development has left many community members frustrated, with some questioning whether on-the-ground enforcement measures are strong enough to deter offenders.

Residents are therefore calling for tighter monitoring, regular patrols and stricter sanctions to protect the river bodies and preserve the Weija Dam for future generations.

NA/VPO