The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) is calling on the government to implement a ban on illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” to avert a potential generational food and nutrition crisis.
Wepia Awal Addo Adugwala, the National President of PFAG, expressed deep concern over the worsening galamsey crisis, stating, “The escalating menace of galamsey is wreaking havoc on our water bodies and the environment. This illegal activity, carried out by ‘wicked, callous, and greedy individuals,’ threatens not only the sustainability of our environment but also the livelihoods of farmers and our food nutrition security.”
Mr. Adugwala highlighted that illegal mining has severely impacted the viability of the cocoa sector and disrupted food crop production essential for consumption, industry, and export.
In light of these issues, PFAG has warned President of Ghana to take immediate and decisive action, arguing that the nation is on the brink of a generational food crisis due to the loss of farmlands, the effects of climate change, and the destruction of water bodies.
Additionally, the Christian Council of Ghana has joined the growing call for a comprehensive ban on galamsey, with General Secretary Reverend Cyril Fayose emphasizing the existential threat it poses to Ghana’s natural resources and urging immediate action to address its severe environmental and social impacts.
Nana Dwomo Sarpong, Chief Executive Officer of Friends of Rivers and Water Bodies, also weighed in on the issue on Okay FM, highlighting the importance of verifying the sources of fruits and vegetables sold in markets.
He explained, “Galamsey operations have devastated our water bodies, which are crucial for irrigation. Consuming produce grown with contaminated water can be harmful to our health, and it is imperative that galamsey activities be halted.”
Mr. Sarpong further suggested that instead of destructive galamsey practices, Ghana could focus on water tourism to both preserve water quality and boost the economy.
“Water tourism could attract tourists and generate revenue for Ghana, providing an economic boost while protecting our precious water resources,” he added.
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Source: ATLFMNEWS
