Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has made a passionate appeal to leaders in academia, urging them to take a more active role in addressing the escalating issue of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in Ghana.
He emphasized that while politicians have been at the forefront of discussions on combating galamsey, their efforts alone will not bring about the sustainable solutions needed to curb the menace.
Mr Kufuor stressed the vital role academic institutions and scholars can play in developing effective and long-term strategies to tackle galamsey, pointing to their research, expertise, and analytical abilities. According to the former president, the academic community holds the key to providing critical insights and innovative approaches that can complement political efforts in the fight against illegal mining.
Speaking at a special event organised by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Kufuor underscored the urgency of addressing the issue. He highlighted the devastating consequences of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment, including the degradation of water bodies, destruction of forests, and loss of fertile land, which, he warned, pose a serious threat to the nation’s future.
Kufuor noted that the effects of galamsey extend beyond politics, describing it as a national issue that requires a multidisciplinary response. He called on the academic community to spearhead discussions and contribute to the search for sustainable solutions.
“The topic of illegal mining and the proper use of our natural resources is one we must address with critical analysis and urgency to achieve the long-term solutions that we must achieve,” Kufuor said. “I therefore urge thought leaders such as the academia, especially institutions like GIMPA, to take up the mantle and lead conversations that bring solutions to these pressing national challenges for the immediate and long term.”
His appeal comes at a time when illegal mining continues to be one of the most contentious issues in Ghana, with significant concerns about its impact on the environment, public health, and the economy.
Galamsey, which is often carried out in unauthorized areas without regard for environmental regulations, has resulted in the contamination of rivers, deforestation, and widespread soil erosion.