You’ve failed to stop galamsey; deal with it before exiting office – GJA to Akufo-Addo

President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has expressed serious concerns over President Nana Akufo-Addo’s unfulfilled promise to tackle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

He urged President Akufo-Addo to make good on his pledge to combat the menace before his term in office ends.

Speaking at the 28th GJA Awards and the association’s 75th-anniversary celebration in Accra on September 28, Mr Dwumfour lamented the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment and water bodies.

He described the situation as “shameful,” noting that the once-pristine water sources in the country have been reduced to murky, dark brown bodies due to illegal mining activities.

Mr Dwumfour called on all Ghanaians to join in the fight against galamsey, stressing that it is a national issue that requires collective action.

He emphasised that the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining is a matter of great concern and must be addressed urgently.

Additionally, the GJA president highlighted the need for strict enforcement of mining laws and regulations.

He urged authorities to impose maximum sentences on offenders to deter illegal mining activities and protect the environment for future generations.

Mr Dwumfour reiterated the importance of a unified effort in the fight against galamsey. He stressed that both the government and citizens must work together to restore Ghana’s water bodies and natural resources to their former glory, ensuring a sustainable future for the country.

“Illegal mining, commonly referred to as Galamsey, is currently a topical issue in the country due to its devastating effects on the environment, particularly our water bodies, which serve as major sources of drinking water.”

“There should be strict enforcement of all mining laws and regulations without any concessions, as well as the imposition of maximum sentences on offenders. This is a reliable approach to addressing this issue.”

“We are aware that some time ago, Mr President made a firm vow to stop galamsey, but regrettably, that promise has not been fulfilled.

“Mr. President, you have barely three months until the end of the administration, and we are hopeful that you will deal with the situation before you leave office,” he told President Akufo-Addo.