The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana, a coalition of prominent leaders from the Charismatic movement, have called for an immediate and temporary ban on all forms of small-scale gold mining, commonly known as galamsey. In an urgent and passionate plea, the clergy stressed that galamsey activities are wreaking havoc on the environment, jeopardizing the livelihoods of Ghanaians, and endangering the future of the country.
A press release signed by the Founder and Presiding Archbishop of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, along with other prominent clerics, expressed deep concern over the escalating destruction caused by illegal mining. The group highlighted that galamsey’s impact is far-reaching, resulting in the pollution of rivers and water bodies, deforestation, and the destruction of farmlands. These actions have made drinking water unsafe and rendered fertile lands unusable for farming, leading to widespread food insecurity and threatening the health and well-being of rural communities.
The Apostolic Fathers emphasized that if galamsey is left unchecked, it could lead to an environmental catastrophe, impacting both present and future generations. They noted that the crisis extends beyond environmental degradation to the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians, particularly those in rural areas who depend on the land and water for survival.
In their statement, the Apostolic Fathers strongly condemned the role of politicians, traditional leaders, and foreign nationals involved in illegal mining practices. They urged these individuals to cease their involvement in galamsey and consider the long-term damage their actions are causing to the country. The clergy called for a collective effort to address the issue, urging the government to impose a temporary ban on all forms of small-scale mining while a permanent solution is sought.
“As God’s Word warns us, ‘Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning’s light, they carry it out because it is in their power to do it’ (Micah 2:1),” the statement read. The Apostolic Fathers stressed the need for repentance, urging all involved in illegal mining to turn from their destructive ways and join the efforts to protect the environment.
The religious leaders also praised journalists and activists who have risked their lives to expose the truth about galamsey, describing their efforts as invaluable to the survival of Ghana’s environment. They commended these brave individuals for shedding light on the crisis and called on the media to continue its vital role in raising awareness.
The Apostolic Fathers grounded their call for action in Biblical principles, reminding Ghanaians of their responsibility as stewards of God’s creation. They cited scripture, such as Genesis 2:15, which states, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it,” urging the public to tend to the environment rather than exploit it for personal gain. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1) was also quoted to underscore the sacredness of the land and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The religious leaders warned that failing to protect Ghana’s natural resources would result in a loss of blessings and prosperity for the nation.
The Apostolic Fathers extended their appeal to the moral leaders of the nation, urging clergy and individuals in positions of spiritual or moral authority to speak out against the environmental destruction caused by galamsey. They called on Ghanaians to join in preserving God’s creation and prioritize the long-term interests of the nation and future generations over short-term personal gains.
In addition to their call for a ban on small-scale mining, the Apostolic Fathers also called on institutions such as the Water Resources Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and civil society organizations (CSOs) to intensify their advocacy efforts in holding accountable those responsible for illegal mining activities. They emphasized the importance of enforcing the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure that those who engage in illegal mining face the full consequences of their actions.
The Apostolic Fathers urged all Ghanaians to come together as one nation to end the destructive practices of galamsey and restore the land. They appealed to the government to adopt sustainable mining practices that respect both the environment and the livelihoods of its citizens. The message from the Apostolic Fathers serves as a strong reminder of the dire consequences of illegal mining and the urgent need for collective action to protect Ghana’s environment and future generations.
Their statement concluded with a call to action for all Ghanaians to recognize the critical moment facing the country and to unite in the fight against illegal mining. The Apostolic Fathers emphasized that the current environmental crisis cannot be ignored and that collective action is necessary to ensure the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources for generations to come.
