The Board Chairman of Ahantaman Community Bank, Rt. Rev. Daniel De-Graft Brace, has called on the government to declare a state of emergency on illegal mining activities. This urgent plea comes as the continued destruction of Ghana's water bodies poses a serious threat to national development and public health.
Despite various government campaigns and interventions against illegal mining, locally known as 'galamsey', the pollution and destruction of rivers and other vital water sources continue to worsen. This impacts many parts of the country, directly affecting communities' access to clean water.
This ongoing environmental degradation directly impacts Ghana's economic stability and public welfare. Access to clean water is crucial for economic productivity, public health, and agricultural output. The destruction of water bodies undermines efforts towards sustainable development and can lead to increased healthcare costs and reduced productivity.
Rt. Rev. Brace, in an interview with the Business & Financial Times, emphasized the critical importance of clean water. He stated, “Almost all our water bodies have been destroyed and polluted, and all the efforts being made by government, chiefs, clergy and even the media are not yielding the needed results.” He noted that recent media reports consistently highlight violent confrontations linked to illegal mining.
The bank chairman also alleged that some traditional leaders and influential persons are complicit in these illegal activities. This involvement significantly complicates enforcement efforts against galamsey. He pointed out that initiatives like the Blue Water Guards programme have shown limited impact on the ground. Reports from regions including Western, Western North, Eastern, and Central regions indicate unchanged or worsening conditions.
The call for a state of emergency highlights the urgency required to address this national crisis. Stronger political will and stricter enforcement of existing laws are crucial to safeguard Ghana's natural resources. Unchecked galamsey can lead to long-term health issues for citizens and substantial clean-up costs for the government, affecting public finances. Protecting these resources is vital for future generations and sustainable economic growth.
Decision-makers must consider robust actions to halt the environmental damage. This includes strengthening regulatory frameworks and targeting complicit individuals. Financial markets and investors watch Ghana's commitment to environmental sustainability closely. Failure to address this issue could deter investment and impact Ghana's economic outlook.