Asantehene adds voice to Galamsey crisis, says 'to do nothing is no longer an option'

Kumasi, Ghana - September 10, 2024 - The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has thrown his weight behind professional bodies in their fight against illegal mining, which is ravaging Ghana's environment and water bodies.

He has called on professional bodies, including the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Ghana Medical Association (GMA), and University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), to continue their strong opposition to illegal mining activities. These activities have caused significant environmental damage and pollution to major water bodies.

The Asantehene urged other influential groups to join the crusade, emphasizing the devastating impact of illegal mining on the environment. He questioned the legal system's response to those responsible for water pollution, calling for collective action to protect Ghana's natural resources.

“Galamsey is an environmental enemy for the nation. What could be more serious for any people than to have the entire water supply system at risk? So, I think as lawyers you should find space during this conference to set up a panel to undertake a quick tour of the communities where this call is most prevalent to see the extent of the crisis we face and hopefully deliberate on how the laws should respond.

“As I see it, if an individual poisoned the water supply of a community, he will be liable for severe consequences under the law. What does the law do when one pours mercury into the same water supply knowing fully well it can kill? This issue now requires the collective effort of all sections of society. To do nothing is no longer an option. The Bar Association, the medical association and the university should get together to deal with this emergency.”

The Asantehene also shared a troubling personal experience during a visit to Cape Coast, where he witnessed the severe pollution of the River Pra, describing the situation as embarrassing.

“While I was going to Cape Coast, I stopped over the River Pra and what I saw was so embarrassing and then if as a nation we live for this to happen to us, we have to fight this no matter what.”

His remarks comes after UTAG, GMA, and GBA recently condemned illegal mining and advocated for a ban on both small-scale and illegal mining practices.

The Asantehene's call to action aims to intensify the fight against illegal mining and protect Ghana's environment.

Source : Florence Kyei /Lead News Online