The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has once again urged the government to declare a state of emergency over the country’s worsening illegal mining crisis, known locally as galamsey, warning that the situation is reaching dangerous new levels and demands urgent, radical action.
Addressing the issue in an interview with an Accra-based station, President of the Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, called for intensified government efforts to tackle illegal mining in order to safeguard public health, the environment, and the livelihoods of ordinary Ghanaians.
Most Rev. Gyamfi cautioned that the impact of galamsey extends far beyond environmental destruction, posing serious risks to water bodies, the food chain, and public health. “You cannot stop fighting galamsey. It is poisonous and very dangerous, creating other sicknesses, introducing illegal drugs into the water system, the food chain and etc,” he warned.
He argued that the government must show stronger resolve in addressing the menace, insisting that the gravity of the crisis warrants extraordinary measures. “Since the president of Ghana held the sword and swore to protect and defend Ghana, we should see him do certain things radically and these are situations where we say a state of emergency should be declared on this deplorable and wicked situation so that Ghanaians will be seen to be really and clearly defended,” Most Rev. Gyamfi said.
The Bishops’ Conference believes only a decisive national response can shield communities from the devastating consequences of illegal mining. Most Rev. Gyamfi emphasized that sustained commitment and firm government action are essential to overcoming the growing threat posed by galamsey to Ghana’s environment and the well-being of its people.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com