When Agyapa Mercer and Sammy Gyamfi clashed over the galamsey fight

The Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, and the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, clashed over the government’s handling of the galamsey (illegal mining) crisis.

During a Thursday morning appearance on Metro TV, Mercer affirmed his strong opposition to mining in water bodies. “I do not, under any circumstances, support mining in water bodies,” he stated, acknowledging the harmful environmental and health impacts of illegal mining.

He expressed hope that the committee established by President Akufo-Addo would engage stakeholders effectively and take swift action to restore the country’s rivers.

Mr Mercer stressed that while illegal mining has been a long-standing issue, the discussion should not be reduced to partisan debates between the NPP and the NDC.

“This problem goes beyond political parties. We need to come together with a common approach to address it,” he emphasised.

He also mentioned that the government is making efforts to tackle the problem, with clear instructions given to relevant agencies to protect water bodies for future generations. “I expect that soon we will see progress in this area, and there will be visible improvements in our water bodies,” he added.

However, Sammy Gyamfi condemned the government’s approach, accusing the NPP of failing to enforce laws and allowing party members to engage in illegal mining.

Mr Gyamfi voiced concerns about the health risks linked to galamsey, especially in areas where polluted water is consumed. 

He cited warnings from the Ghana Medical Association, pointing out the dangers of mercury and other toxic chemicals contaminating water bodies. 

According to Gyamfi, these pollutants are causing serious long-term health issues in both adults and newborns.

He argued that despite the government’s promises, the crisis has worsened, with communities near polluted water bodies suffering the consequences. “The NPP government lacks the political will to tackle this issue,” Gyamfi charged, highlighting the health hazards posed by mercury and other toxins in contaminated rivers.

Mr Mercer defended the government’s efforts and dismissed Gyamfi’s accusations of inaction, noting, “I expect that soon we will see the results of the work being done. Clearly, there will be changes in our water bodies.”