The Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, has called for the urgent declaration of a state of emergency in areas of Ghana most severely affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, April 28, Dr. Ashigbey emphasised the need to manage Ghana’s natural resources with a vision that safeguards the future of the country.
He noted that concerns about illegal mining, environmental degradation, and public health threats remain as pressing today as they were under previous administrations, stressing that the time for decisive action is now.
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Dr. Ashigbey urged President John Dramani Mahama to treat the galamsey crisis with the same urgency the government had shown in responding to previous national crises such as fuel shortages and power outages.
“In places where armed groups are attacking Forestry Commission officers, a state of emergency is definitely required. The urgency with which the government addressed issues like fuel shortages and electricity crises should be the same, if not greater, for illegal mining,” he stated.
He warned that the country is approaching a critical tipping point.
“The windows are closing. If we don’t act swiftly and decisively, we will reach a point of no return, where the devastation to our environment and public health cannot be reversed.”
Dr. Ashigbey also praised citizens who have taken to the streets to demand stronger government action against illegal mining activities.
“We must commend our brothers and sisters who are out there protesting. Earlier engagements with them indicated that such actions were being planned, and it’s encouraging to see citizens rise up to demand accountability from those we have elected to lead us,” he said.
The call for a state of emergency adds to the growing public outcry for more aggressive measures to combat the illegal mining menace that continues to threaten Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and communities.
