The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has urged President John Dramani Mahama to immediately declare a state of emergency in areas ravaged by illegal mining (galamsey).
In a statement signed by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the Bishops described galamsey as “one of the gravest afflictions of our time,” warning that it has destroyed rivers, forests, and farmlands while endangering public health and food security.
They cautioned that the menace has “matured into a threat to national security,” accusing some politicians, chiefs, and security officers of complicity in shielding illegal miners.
Expressing disappointment at President Mahama’s dismissal of earlier appeals, the Bishops declared: “Delay is betrayal. Now, not tomorrow, not later, is the time to act.”
The Conference called for tougher mining laws, special courts for speedy prosecutions, a permanent corruption-proof task force, and sustainable alternatives for communities dependent on galamsey.
They insisted that government must show courage by prosecuting both small operators and powerful backers, stressing that the fight “concerns the very soul of Ghana.”
