Ghana’s population — over 34 million and rising — is facing the deepening tragedy of poisoned water caused by illegal mining. Illegal mining contributes to the bulk of the crisis, which, given current trends, seems destined to persist for a long time. Too long! But what if artificial intelligence (AI) could help clean up our rivers and lakes?
AI is already being used to fight water pollution in some countries. In Birmingham, UK, the Thames Water Company has implemented AI-driven systems on parts of its network to monitor and predict sewer blockages. This helps the city proactively address overflows, flooding, and other issues. AI applications of this kind support broader efforts to improve infrastructure management and reduce negative environmental impacts.
India’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has collaborated with Fluid Robotics to monitor and clean up Powai Lake, applying robots equipped with AI-enabled cameras, ultrasound sensors, and lasers. The robots inspect pipelines for damage and map the whole network, facilitating interception and redirection of wastewater away from the lake.
These techniques can be adapted for Ghana. With the right tools, polluted water can be redirected and cleaned up before being reintroduced to the river. Given the existing scourge of pollution by illegal mining companies, imagine the government deploying and enforcing regulations that compel all actors to deploy AI and sensors for:
- Providing early warnings about pollution events.
- Optimizing water treatment plants that ensure safe drinking water2.
- Enabling decision-makers and communities to understand and protect our water bodies.
AI can even empower citizens to report pollution using the now ubiquitous phone.
These solutions require multi-level teamwork. The Ghanaian government and organizations like Safe Water Network, universities, and international groups must collaborate.
By embracing AI, Ghana and other African countries can protect precious water resources and save our citizens.
