The Minority in Parliament has called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to address the nation on the current state of the country’s environment, particularly in relation to illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
The call comes amidst growing concerns over the destruction of Ghana’s water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves due to uncontrolled mining.
The Minority believes that a comprehensive address from the president is necessary to outline the government’s strategies in tackling the environmental crisis, which has persisted despite several interventions.
According to the Minority, the damage caused by galamsey is at a critical level, threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of many communities.
They argue that despite the president’s initial promise to combat illegal mining, the situation appears to have worsened, with many high-profile individuals allegedly involved in the practice.
The group insists that Ghanaians deserve to hear directly from the president about what actions are being taken to stop the menace and restore the country’s degraded lands and polluted rivers.
The Minority also raised concerns about the long-term implications of environmental degradation, particularly on agriculture and access to clean water.
In a press statement released on Sunday, September 15, and signed by its Ranking on Lands and Natural Resources Committee, Alhassan Suhuyini, they cautioned that if immediate measures are not implemented, the nation could face severe consequences, including food insecurity and health hazards due to polluted water sources.
They urged the President to not only address the environmental crisis but also propose actionable solutions that would involve all stakeholders, including local communities, law enforcement, and civil society.
The Minority stressed that it is the president’s responsibility to lead the charge in safeguarding the country’s natural resources for future generations.
They called on President Akufo-Addo to deliver a clear and transparent address that outlines the government’s plan to curb illegal mining and mitigate its devastating impact on the environment.
This, they believe, would demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s environment and ensuring 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.”