The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, has charged the youth to lead the fight against illegal mining, which is having a serious toll on the country’s ecosystem.
He pointed out that the long-term consequences of destroying forests and water bodies through illegal mining would fall heavily on the next generation, thus the need for them to actively push for accountability and responsible environmental practices.
“The youth must be at the forefront of shaping the country’s environmental future. Your innovation, action and voices can drive accountability, particularly on illegal mining,” he stressed.
Mr Skinnebach made these remarks during a discussion with the Vice Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, as part of his working visit to the Northern Region.
He also interacted with the Youth Sounding Board, a European Union platform that engages young people directly in policy dialogue and development planning.
The discussions centred on the impact of illegal mining on agriculture, food security and the environment, as well as on the practical roles the youth can play in curbing the threat.
The forum brought together student leaders, civil society youth groups and non-governmental organisations for an open debate on solutions to the growing menace.
Threat
Describing illegal mining as an existential threat to communities, the EU ambassador admonished young people to complement the government’s efforts to protect natural resources.
He added that the EU considered youth empowerment a core pillar of its development agenda for Ghana and would continue to partner relevant agencies to create opportunities for the youth.
“Every nation depends on its youth for transformational growth. This potential can only be realised through intentional investment and strategic partnerships with institutions such as the UDS,” he said.
Youth leadership
For his part, Prof. Al-Hassan thanked the ambassador for the visit and reaffirmed the UDS’s commitment to championing youth leadership and growth.
He said the university’s youth-centred approach had driven progress in academics, innovation, leadership training and sports, adding that the fight against illegal mining cannot succeed without youth participation.
He pledged the university’s commitment to collaborate with the EU and other partners to strengthen youth-led solutions that contribute to national development.
Writer’s email: mohammed.fugu@graphic.com.gh
