The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana, representing 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 referred to as galamsey.
In a passionate and urgent plea, the clergy stressed that galamsey activities are wreaking havoc on the environment, the livelihoods of Ghanaians, and the future of the country.
In a press release signed by the Founder and Presiding Archbishop of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and other prominent clerics, the Apostolic Fathers expressed deep concern over the escalating destruction caused by illegal mining.
The group highlighted that the effects of galamsey have far-reaching consequences, including the pollution of rivers and water bodies, deforestation, and the destruction of farmlands.
These actions have made drinking water unsafe and fertile lands unusable for farming, resulting in widespread food insecurity and threatening the health and well-being of rural communities that rely heavily on the land for survival.
The Apostolic Fathers emphasized that if galamsey is left unchecked, it will lead to an environmental catastrophe, affecting both present and future generations. They noted that the current crisis is not only about environmental degradation but also about the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians, particularly those in rural areas who depend on the land and water for sustenance.
A call for immediate action
The statement strongly condemned the role of politicians, traditional leaders, and foreign nationals involved in illegal mining practices. The Apostolic Fathers urged these individuals to immediately cease their involvement in galamsey and consider the long-term damage their actions are causing to the country.
They 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 the work of 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.
Theological and Moral Imperatives
The Apostolic Fathers rooted their call for action in Biblical principles, reminding Ghanaians of their responsibility as stewards of God’s creation. They cited scripture, including 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.
Appeal to national leadership
In addition to calling for a ban on small-scale mining, the Apostolic Fathers extended their appeal to the moral leaders of the nation—both clergy and individuals in positions of spiritual or moral authority. They urged these leaders to rise and speak out against the environmental destruction caused by galamsey, rallying Ghanaians to join in preserving God’s creation.
The Apostolic Fathers’ statement concluded with a strong message to all Ghanaians, particularly those in power, to prioritise the long-term interests of the nation and future generations over short-term personal gains.
They warned that the current environmental crisis cannot be ignored and that collective action is needed to ensure the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources for generations to come.
Media Engagement and Civil Society Call
The press release 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.
The Apostolic Fathers emphasised 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 Apostolic Fathers’ message 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.