The Minority in Parliament has urged President Nana Akufo-Addo to deliver a national address on the current state of Ghana’s environment, with a particular focus on illegal mining activities, or galamsey.
This call comes amid increasing concerns about the extensive damage to Ghana’s water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves caused by uncontrolled mining.
The Minority argues that a comprehensive address from the President is crucial to outline the government’s strategies for addressing this environmental crisis, which persists despite various interventions.
They contend that the damage from galamsey has reached a critical level, threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of numerous communities.
The Minority also points out that despite the President’s initial commitment to combating illegal mining, the situation appears to have deteriorated, with allegations of involvement by several high-profile individuals.
The Minority in Parliament asserts that Ghanaians deserve a direct address from President Nana Akufo-Addo regarding the measures being taken to combat illegal mining and restore the country’s damaged lands and polluted rivers.
They have also expressed concerns about the long-term impacts of environmental degradation, particularly on agriculture and access to clean water.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, September 15, and signed by Alhassan Suhuyini, Ranking Member on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, the Minority warned that failure to implement immediate actions could lead to severe consequences, including food insecurity and health risks from polluted water sources.
The Minority urged the President to not only address the environmental crisis but also to propose actionable solutions that involve all stakeholders, including local communities, law enforcement, and civil society.
They emphasized that it is the President’s duty to lead efforts to protect the nation’s natural resources for future generations, demonstrating a genuine commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
“The detrimental impacts of galamsay are widespread, affecting not just the environment but also the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on clean water and healthy ecosystems.
We call upon President Nana Akufo Addo and his government to without fail address the nation on the State of our Environment, outlining the immediate and decisive actions to be taken to address these illegal activities.”
“This should include how to enforce the existing laws more rigorously, conducting thorough investigations especially on several allegations of the complicity of many government officials and party leaders, and holding accountable those already implicated by previous investigations in these destructive practices.”
