Lions International, District 418, Ghana, has expressed strong condemnation of the increasing illegal mining activities, popularly known as ‘galamsey,’ which continue to wreak havoc on the nation’s environment and communities. In a forceful statement, the organization called for immediate government action to ban the destructive practice and protect the health and future prosperity of the country.
Lions International highlighted the alarming scale of environmental damage caused by illegal mining, noting that over 2.5 million hectares of forest land have been lost to galamsey operations. Equally concerning is the widespread contamination of rivers with toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, rendering many water bodies unsafe for consumption and threatening aquatic life. The pollution has also made farmlands dangerous for agricultural activities, putting food security at risk.
The humanitarian organization drew attention to the devastating effects galamsey is having on public health, particularly on children. The rise in childhood cancers and other debilitating illnesses has been linked to the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining. Lions International stressed the urgent need for action as Ghana marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, urging all those involved in galamsey to reconsider their roles in the ongoing environmental destruction.
“As an organization committed to fighting childhood cancer, addressing hunger, and championing environmental protection, we are deeply alarmed by the threats posed by galamsey,” the statement read.
“The increasing cases of childhood cancers in our hospitals should compel every one of us to rethink our role in perpetuating or tolerating the devastation of our environment and its consequences on the health of our children and the future of our country.”
Lions International called on the government to take decisive action, demanding a comprehensive and immediate ban on illegal and unregulated small-scale mining. The organization emphasized that the government, which holds state authority and stewardship over Ghana’s natural resources, must demonstrate strong leadership to bring an end to galamsey.
The statement, signed by District Governor Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan, urged swift and sustained action from the authorities, underscoring that Lions International stands ready to support efforts to eradicate the practice. “We re-emphasize our preparedness to do whatever is necessary to protect our children, ensure food security, and safeguard our environment. The time for action is now, and we will not relent in our efforts until this menace is eradicated.”
With their motto, “We Serve,” Lions International pledged continued advocacy and action in support of causes that matter most to Ghanaian communities. The organization called on all stakeholders to unite in the fight against galamsey and take concrete steps to preserve the future of Ghana for generations to come.
Source: Ghananewsonline.com.gh