Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has called on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, to take swift action to combat illegal mining, known as ‘galamsey’, before the upcoming 2024 elections.
Dr. Ashigbey stressed that the Ghanaian public cannot afford to wait for the implementation of policies outlined in the manifestos of both the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) after the elections.
He warned of the severe consequences Ghana could face if galamsey is not addressed urgently.
His comments come in response to Ghana Water Limited’s (GWL) announcement that Cape Coast, Elmina, and nearby communities in the Central Region will face water shortages due to the impact of galamsey.
GWL’s statement, released on August 30, noted that pollution has severely diminished water intake, with around 60% of the catchment capacity silted. The Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant is struggling with a significant demand-supply gap caused by pollution of the Pra River.
In a recent interview, Dr. Ashigbey emphasized the necessity for politicians to confront the galamsey crisis head-on. He criticized those involved in illegal mining, pointing to companies like Akonta Mining and Heritage Imperial, which have avoided consequences despite numerous petitions.
Dr. Ashigbey argued that political leaders who exploit mining resources for personal gain are failing the citizens.
He highlighted the dire environmental impact, including potential droughts and failing crops, if immediate action is not taken.
Both presidential candidates have made pledges to address the issue: John Mahama has proposed using Artificial Intelligence to combat illegal mining if elected, while Dr. Bawumia has promised to support small-scale miners and implement a revised strategy to manage mining activities and preserve confiscated equipment.
