The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Ghana Chapter is calling for the immediate halt of illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, which is wreaking havoc on the nation’s environment.
In a press release, the Association expressed deep concern over the destruction of forests, water bodies, and agricultural lands due to illegal mining, describing it as an environmental catastrophe.
IFMA Ghana emphasized that, the damage caused by galamsey is putting future generations at risk, threatening the country’s long-term sustainability.
They called illegal mining “akin to killing the hen that lays the golden egg,” stressing the importance of prioritizing environmental preservation over short-term financial gains.
The Association urged all Ghanaians, regardless of political affiliations, to unite in the fight against galamsey.
They also called on the media to continue raising awareness about the issue, encouraging collective action to restore the country’s natural resources.
IFMA Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable resource management and working with stakeholders to promote responsible mining practices and environmental restoration efforts.
Read the full statement below:
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 13
TH SEPTEMBER, 2024
A CALL TO STOP ILLEGAL MINING NOW – IFMA GHANA URGES IMMEDIATE ACTION
TO SAVE OUR ENVIRONMENT
The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Ghana Chapter is deeply
alarmed by the persistent and widespread destruction of Ghana’s natural resources,
particularly through illegal mining (galamsey).
This environmental catastrophe is laying waste to our forests, water bodies, and agricultural lands. As an association focused on sustainable facility and environmental management, we issue this urgent call to all Ghanaians: Galamsey must stop now!
We are on the verge of losing the battle against illegal mining as a nation. The
consequences our inaction are too dire to ignore. The land, water, and resources we
destroy today are the very foundation on which future generations depend.
Why Illegal Mining Must Stop Now
The dangers posed by illegal mining are not new to us. By now, every citizen of Ghana is
aware of the damage galamsey brings. We have seen rivers once teeming with life turn into
toxic sludge. Forests that provided clean air and biodiversity are now barren wastelands.
Our country’s agricultural lands, vital for food production and livelihoods, have been
devastated.
The destruction of our environment is akin to “killing the hen that lays the golden egg.”
Short-term financial gains from galamsey come at the expense of long-term sustainability,
threatening the very survival of our economy, our communities, and our future
generations.
A National Emergency
As a nation, we must admit that the continuation of galamsey will bring lasting harm. Our
water bodies, which serve as the lifeblood for millions of Ghanaians and other countries,
are now heavily contaminated with mercury and other harmful chemicals. Farmers are
losing their arable lands to illegal miners, putting food security at risk. The forests, which
act as the lungs of our country, are being indiscriminately cleared, contributing to climate
change and leaving future generations to inherit an unlivable environment.
In the words of an African proverb, “The earth is not given to you by your parents; it is
loaned to you by your children.” We have a duty to leave behind a healthy, thriving
environment for the generations yet to come. The future belongs to them, and we must not
allow our selfish interests to destroy their inheritance.
A Collective Responsibility
We must not let political differences divide us in the fight against illegal mining. The
devastation galamsey causes affects every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation, tribe, or social status. Now is the time to put aside our political colors and unite for the common good. The fight against galamsey must be a collective effort. Every institution, every citizen, and every leader must take ownership of this battle if we are to succeed.
As an African proverb says, “When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot
hurt you.” Our internal divisions weaken our resolve. Let us unite as one nation, with one
purpose: to save our environment and secure the future of Ghana.
The Role of the Media
We at IFMA Ghana commend the media for the great work they have done so far in
exposing the horrors of galamsey. Your voice has brought attention to an issue that
threatens the very survival of our country. However, this is not the time to rest. The media
must rise like never before. You are the watchdogs of society – keep this issue at the
forefront until the change we all seek is realized. Do not stop talking about galamsey until
we see the rivers run clear again, until the forests regenerate, and until Ghana can truly
boast of its rich natural resources once more.
A Call to All Ghanaians
IFMA Ghana urges every Ghanaian to take action. The time for talk has passed; now is the
time for action. Illegal mining must stop. We cannot afford to wait another day. Our
environment, our economy, and our children’s future depend on it.
Our Commitment
As custodians of the built and natural environment, IFMA Ghana remains committed to
advocating for the sustainable management of Ghana’s resources. We will continue to work
with the government, civil society, and local communities to promote responsible mining
practices, reforestation projects, and environmental restoration initiatives. Together, we
can reclaim our lands and secure a brighter future for all.
The future of Ghana lies in our hands. Let us act now, or risk leaving a legacy of destruction for generations to come.
Issued by: International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Ghana Chapter
For inquiries, please contact us at 0201770475 or Email: ifmagac@gmail.com
THE END
MR. SAMPSON OPARE-AGYEMENG
PRESIDENT (IFMA GHAHA CHAPTER)
Source: Adomonline
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