Feature by; Christopher Adjei Boateng
The conversation around illegal mining (popularly called galamsey) often focuses on land degradation and the destruction of water bodies. But the reality is far more alarming: galamsey activities are also driving a surge in deadly non-communicable diseases that threaten lives across Ghana.
Recent data from Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital paints a worrying picture — over 5,225 diabetes cases, 2,300 kidney cases, and 2,800 heart cases recorded in just six months. While several factors contribute, health experts and citizens alike cannot overlook the role of galamsey in polluting water, contaminating crops, and exposing entire communities to harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide. These substances enter the food chain and gradually destroy human health.
At a recent workshop jointly organized by the Ghana Chamber of Mines and the GHANA Journalists Association (GJA) at Miklin Hotel, Kumasi, the call for responsible and legal mining was made clear. Speaking to journalists across mining regions, the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Dr. Ken Ashigbey, emphasized that mining is not a bidding activity but a regulated sector. According to him, no individual or company has the right to mine without a lease or permit, as stipulated by Ghana’s laws. He cautioned that unregulated mining not only robs the state of revenue but also endangers communities.
The lesson is simple but urgent: mining must be done the right way, with strict adherence to environmental standards and health regulations. For galamsey operators, this means moving beyond personal or family gains and considering the collective survival of society.
If communities continue to fall sick, farmlands continue to vanish, and rivers continue to die, then the very wealth galamsey chasers seek will never bring comfort. True prosperity lies in responsible mining that sustains both lives and livelihoods.
Christopher Adjei Boateng
Journalist – Ahafo Region
