Home Of Ghana News Ghana News, Entertainment And More
Mr. Bright Botchway, Deputy National Director of Traders and Artisans of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has slammed the Bank of Ghana’s launch of gold coins, citing concerns over the bank’s alleged support for illegal gold mining, known as “galamsey.”
This destructive practice has ravaged Ghana’s forests and rivers, with water quality severely impacted in recent years.
“The activities of small-scale illegal miners have left lasting environmental damage, particularly to the nation’s rivers and water bodies,” Botchway emphasized.
Galamsey’s devastating environmental impact is well-documented, with estimates suggesting $250 million is needed to reclaim affected lands and water bodies in the Western Region alone. The College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana has also highlighted the alarming environmental and health consequences of galamsey, stressing the need for decisive action.
Botchway argued that the Governor’s inaction is staggering, particularly given the enormous costs of reclaiming affected lands and water bodies. Instead of enabling illegal mining, the Minerals Commission and government should take decisive action against it.
“Ghana’s ecological integrity and economic future depend on responsible mining practices. The Governor’s inaction is a dereliction of duty, prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability.” He stressed
He indicated that the issue of galamsey is complex, with various types of operations, including alluvial washing board, mill-house, and chamfi, causing significant environmental harm.
To effectively address this challenge, comprehensive solutions and restoration programs ought to be implemented by the current government to curb the galamsey menace but Not to use another useless means to loot the country and ruin the environment
He added that, It’s time for the government to take decisive action against galamsey and prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains.
By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
