New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has urged the government to declare a nationwide 90-day suspension of all mining activities in an effort to restore Ghana’s severely polluted water bodies.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 15, Dr. Acheampong emphasized the need for bold and decisive action to protect the country’s natural resources, even if it entails significant financial sacrifice.
“Everybody should stop mining in this country. Regardless of the financial consequences, we have to agree that for the next 90 days, during the rainy season, we should stop mining,” he declared.
Dr. Acheampong clarified that his call was not for a state of emergency, but for a national consensus that would give the environment a chance to recover.
“Let’s clear our water bodies and then engage on how we go back to mining. I am not talking about a state of emergency, but mining, regardless of where, should stop now,” he said.
He likened the situation to trying to fix a moving train, insisting that a total halt is necessary before any meaningful repairs can be made. “We cannot repair the tyre or the truck of a moving train. As long as it is speeding, we need to agree to stop,” he added.
Dr. Acheampong’s proposal comes amid rising public alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining—known locally as galamsey—on Ghana’s rivers, forests, and rural communities.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
