A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has emphasised the need for the government to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining, known as ‘galamsey’.
He has reiterated the devastating impact of galamsey, warning that “if we continue like this, Ghana will soon reach a point of no return.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe described the prospect of inaction as ” a shameful prospect” for the country.
“And it is not only our land and rivers at stake; galamsey has become a breeding ground for disease, social decay, and poverty. We are mortgaging the health and dignity of generations yet unborn,” he reemphasised.
Highlighting the impact of galamsey, he said: “Today, the consequences are staring us in the face. Communities in mining zones are now reporting rising cases of skin diseases, waterborne infections, and even new kidney cases, spread through the influx of transient workers. Pregnant women and children are drinking contaminated water, with long-term effects on their health.”
He warned that if left unchecked, illegal mining could collapse the state.
“Let me say this without hesitation: galamsey is not only a crime against the state, it is a crime against the soul of Ghana.”
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe further stressed that Ghana’s environment has become toxic due to galamsey, warning that both food and water have been contaminated as a result.
“Worse still, recent studies show that mercury and other toxic chemicals from galamsey have entered our food chain. Fish, vegetables, and staple crops are being poisoned, creating a silent epidemic of food contamination. Ghanaians are unknowingly eating poison every day because of galamsey. This is not speculation—this is happening now.”
Calls have intensified for the government to declare a state of emergency in areas affected by galamsey. However, President Mahama believes the time is not yet ripe for that, especially when there are other options to be explored.
This stance has sparked nationwide discussions, with the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) urging the President to make the declaration to protect the environment.
