The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana, a coalition of leading Charismatic church figures, have urgently called for a temporary ban on all small-scale gold mining, commonly known as galamsey.
This plea addresses the severe environmental degradation and damage to livelihoods caused by illegal mining activities.
In a strongly-worded statement signed by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams of Action Chapel International and other prominent clergy, the Apostolic Fathers expressed deep concern over the devastating effects of galamsey. They highlighted the extensive consequences, including contamination of water sources, deforestation, and destruction of fertile land.
Environmental and Humanitarian Crisis
The Apostolic Fathers underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that galamsey has polluted rivers and left communities without safe drinking water. They also pointed out that large areas of agricultural land have become unusable, exacerbating food insecurity and worsening poverty in rural areas.
They warned that if illegal mining continues unchecked, it could lead to an environmental disaster with long-term impacts for current and future generations. The crisis extends beyond environmental destruction, threatening the health and livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians, especially in rural communities.
Call for Collective Action
The Apostolic Fathers condemned politicians, traditional leaders, and foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, urging them to cease their activities and prioritize the nation’s welfare over personal gain. They called on the government to impose a temporary ban on small-scale mining while a sustainable solution is developed. Quoting scripture, they urged those involved in galamsey to repent and abandon their destructive practices.
“As God’s Word warns us, ‘Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning’s light, they carry it out because it is in their power to do it’ (Micah 2:1),” the statement read, emphasizing the moral duty to halt illegal mining.
Recognition of Journalists and Activists
The Apostolic Fathers commended journalists and activists who have risked their lives to expose the truth about galamsey. Their efforts have been crucial in raising awareness and bringing the issue to national attention. The clergy encouraged the media to continue highlighting the devastating impacts of illegal mining.
Biblical Stewardship and Responsibility
Rooted in scripture, the Apostolic Fathers reminded Ghanaians of their duty to protect God’s creation. They cited Genesis 2:15, which calls for stewardship of the Earth, and Psalm 24:1, affirming the sacredness of the land, to emphasize the need to preserve Ghana’s natural resources for future generations. They warned that ongoing environmental destruction could lead to the loss of national blessings and prosperity.
Urgent Appeal to National Leadership
Beyond calling for a mining ban, the Apostolic Fathers appealed to Ghana’s moral and spiritual leaders to speak out against galamsey. They urged leaders to mobilize their communities to protect the environment and prioritize the nation’s long-term interests. They warned that failure to act now would result in irreversible damage and called for collective action to safeguard Ghana’s future.
Civil Society and Government Responsibility
The Apostolic Fathers also urged regulatory bodies like the Water Resources Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce stricter regulations and hold illegal miners accountable. They called on civil society organizations and other stakeholders to intensify advocacy for the enforcement of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
The Apostolic Fathers’ message serves as a stern reminder of the urgent need to end illegal mining and take decisive steps to protect Ghana’s environment for future generations.
