The galamsey effect on Ghana

The detrimental impact of Galamsey on Ghana's environment and society has become increasingly apparent. The nation's focus on short-term economic gain has led to a regression, exemplified by the Galamsey menace that is pushing Ghana into a crisis.

Water sources for households have been destroyed, with short-term revenue generation taking precedence over long-term consequences. Regrettably, politicians, religious leaders, influential individuals, and even some pastors have actively participated in Galamsey, benefiting financially from tithes, offerings, and political financing. Those who appeared to oppose Galamsey were often the main culprits. The result is a water crisis, along with increased sickness and diseases. Additionally, numerous uncovered pits left after mining have caused loss of life in villages like Denkyira Modaso and its surroundings.

The damage Galamsey has done to us far outweighs any perceived benefits. Many places plagued by Galamsey have witnessed a massive infrastructural boost such as ultra-modern homes and mansions; however, these same communities are now at high risk of water crisis and water-borne diseases as a result of the mercury being used to extract gold.

The fight against galamsey continues to pose a threat to national security because it has become a cartel or similar to some drug gangs making it difficult to fight it. Some security officers who were deployed to go and arrest those miscreants ended up protecting them and soliciting money from them.

It will be challenging to assign blame because we are all complicit in this situation. I was deeply saddened when I observed pastors from the Christian Council visiting the site to pray for an end to galamsey. Prayers alone will not suffice; we must hold ourselves accountable and develop robust policies to combat this menace. Some members of the clergy indirectly benefit from galamsey.

I am hopeful that we can address this issue without resorting to political blame games and focus on salvaging what remains. Development entails more than just acquiring vehicles and constructing buildings; it also involves protecting and preserving our natural resources for future generations. It is unfathomable that anyone in their right mind would assist foreigners in crossing our borders to destroy our water bodies while preserving their own, unless driven by greed. I fear that we may eventually be forced to import water from other nations. A nation without a reliable water supply is vulnerable to external threats.

May God guide our beloved nation, Ghana.