Extend “galamsey” fight to all activities destroying environment — Presby Moderator

The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rt. Rev. Dr Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has called for the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, to be extended to other activities that destroy the environment.

He said activities such as illegal sand winning, air pollution and littering of the environment also had to be addressed as they equally had  devastating effects on the environment.

“We continue to stand against galamsey, but there are other things that we do that are also destroying the environment. The littering of our communities for instance , and in some places, it looks like the local authorities are not working to curb this menace,” he said.

Rt Rev Dr Opare Kwakye was speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic on the sidelines of the annual consultation forum of the PCG’s Department of Development and Social Services (DSS) at Abokobi in the Ga East District.

Dirtiest city

The PCG Moderator expressed disappointment in the country’s attitude towards protecting the environment, adding that everyone should bow his or her  head in shame for the level of filth and pollution, especially in urban areas.

“Accra that was touted to become the cleanest city in Africa is actually now becoming the dirtiest city on the continent, indeed to the extent that we have been told that the air purity in Accra is not good for human living.

“Let us talk about galamsey, but we must not forget other things that are destroying the environment, and make sure that we have a better place for ourselves and the future generation,” he stated

Protecting the environment

Rt Rev Dr  Opare Kwakye lauded the public, civil society organisations (CSO), religious groups, labour unions and other stakeholders for their unrelenting advocacy against illegal mining.

He stressed the importance of protecting the environment, adding that God created the world for the good of mankind.

“Indeed, we believe that the earth is the Lord’s and His fullness thereof. It is our responsibility to take good care of the creation that God has given us

“Unfortunately in this country, out of greed and selfishness and desire to loot and destroy resources for personal gains, many people have decided to engage in illegal mining to our detriment ,” he added. 

Implementation

While welcoming  the initiatives introduced by the government to curb  illegal mining, Rt. Rev. Dr Opare Kwakye stressed the need for the initiatives to be implemented without fear, favour or any ill will

He said illegal mining was a serious environmental disaster that should not be swept under the carpet or exploited for political expediency.

“Let us see people being arrested and prosecuted and placed in jail to be freed after the election. We must fight this menace irrespective of elections. All of us must collaborate, come together as one nation, and fight this canker that is destroying us,” he added.

Writer’s email: emma.hawkson@graphic .com.gh