Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has made a passionate appeal to members of academia, urging them to take a more proactive role in addressing the pressing issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey in Ghana.
In his address, Kufuor emphasised that while politicians have been central to the discussions surrounding the fight against galamsey, their efforts alone would not suffice in achieving sustainable solutions.
He stressed the importance of involving academic experts whose knowledge, research, and analytical skills can contribute to more effective and long-term strategies to combat this growing problem.
Speaking at a special event organised by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), the former president highlighted the urgency with which the issue of illegal mining needs to be tackled.
He noted that the negative consequences of galamsey, including environmental degradation, destruction of water bodies, and loss of arable land, have far-reaching implications for the country’s future. As such, the former president pointed out that this is not just a political issue, but one that requires a multidisciplinary approach, where the academic community can play a pivotal role.
“The topic of illegal mining and the proper use of our natural resources is one we must address with critical analysis and urgency to achieve the long-term solutions that we must achieve.
“I therefore urge thought leaders such as the academia, especially institutions like GIMPA, to take up the mantle and lead conversations that bring solutions to these pressing national challenges for the immediate and long term.”
Kufuor’s call comes at a time when illegal mining has become one of the most contentious issues in Ghana, with widespread concerns about its impact on the environment, public health, and the economy.
The practice of galamsey, which is often carried out in unauthorised areas and without adherence to environmental regulations, has led to the contamination of major rivers, deforestation, and soil erosion.
These activities have not only threatened Ghana’s natural resources but have also sparked tensions between local communities and mining operators.