China’s government has asked Ghana to take legal action against any of its officials who violate local laws.
The directive comes amid ongoing concerns over illegal mining activities involving some Chinese nationals.
Galmsey activities have severely damaged Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Recently, the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) reported a deepening water crisis, linking the pollution of vital water sources to illegal mining operations.
The GWCL has warned of imminent water supply issues in Cape Coast, Elmina, and surrounding areas, noting that the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant is struggling with insufficient raw water due to contamination from galamsey activities.
In response, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, who was speaking during a recent press conference acknowledged that some Chinese nationals are involved in illegal mining but stressed that the Chinese government strongly opposes such activities.
“I know there are some Chinese involved in this illegal mining but we discourage them.We always request Chinese citizens here to do things legally, to do things according to laws and regulations and even traditional customs. I know there are some Chinese involved in illegal mining but we discourage them. Our president has told president Akufo-Addo to deal with any Chinese official who commits illegal sins in Ghana should be dealt with according to the law,” Mr. Tong stated.
Chinese Ambassador to Ghana Tong Defa highlighted a 2018 agreement between President Akufo-Addo and the Chinese President, which established that any Chinese nationals involved in illegal activities in Ghana would be held accountable under local laws.
Ambassador Tong reaffirmed China’s position against illegal mining, stating, “We discourage Chinese people from doing this illegal mining,” the Chinese ambassador noted.
Amid growing frustration over the ineffective response to the galamsey crisis, Organised Labour has reacted strongly. On September 11, 2024, the group warned the government of a potential nationwide strike by the end of the month if swift and effective measures are not implemented to tackle the worsening situation.