The scourge of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, continues to plague Ghana, leaving in its wake a trail of devastated water bodies and outraged citizens.
The Ghana Water Company has lamented the worsening state of the country’s water resources, while civil society groups point accusing fingers at the government for its perceived inaction.
The galamsey menace has been a longstanding issue in Ghana, with illegal miners exploiting the country’s rich gold deposits without regard for environmental or health consequences.
The practice has resulted in the pollution of numerous water bodies, including rivers, streams, and lakes, making it difficult for communities to access clean drinking water.
Meanwhile, Ghana Water Company officials have expressed concern over the alarming rate at which water bodies are being polluted, citing the high cost of treating water and the health risks associated with consuming contaminated water.
Also, Civil society groups have also joined the chorus of condemnation, accusing the government of failing to take decisive action against galamsey operators.
“The government’s lack of commitment to tackling this issue is appalling,” said a spokesperson for the Ghana Environmental Movement.
“It’s time for them to take concrete steps to protect our environment and ensure access to clean water for all Ghanaians.”
The NPP government has faced criticism for its perceived leniency towards galamsey operators, with some accusing officials of colluding with the illegal miners. In response, the government has promised to crack down on galamsey activities, but its efforts have been met with skepticism by many.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, Ghanaians are demanding urgent action from the government to address the galamsey menace and protect the country’s water resources.
With the health and well-being of millions at risk, the need for effective solutions has never been more pressing.
Ghanaians Outraged
Meanwhile, Parliament was abuzz with fiery exchanges between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) as they traded accusations over the galamsey menace.
The two parties were heard absolving themselves of blame, leaving Ghanaians frustrated and disappointed.
The debate centered on which administration had presided over the destruction of water bodies due to galamsey.
NPP lawmakers claimed that the NDC’s tenure saw the most devastation, while NDC MPs countered that the NPP had failed to address the issue despite promises to do so.
Ghanaians took to social media to express their outrage, with many calling out both parties for their hypocrisy. “Stop the blame game and fix the problem!” tweeted one user.
“We’re tired of excuses and fingerpointing!” Another user added, “Both parties have failed us. It’s time for action, not words!”
Civil society groups also weighed in, criticizing the parties for their lack of accountability.
“The destruction of our water bodies is a collective failure of both administrations,” said a spokesperson for the Ghana Environmental Movement. “We need concrete solutions, not blameshifting!”
