World-renowned Evangelist and economist, Dr Lawrence Tetteh, has called for urgent and decisive action to halt illegal mining, also known as galamsey, to preserve Ghana’s natural resources and safeguard the lives of the future generation.

He said illegal mining was causing serious environmental destruction hence immediate attention from all sectors of society, particularly the government, security agencies, and traditional authorities to control the malpractices.

Dr Lawrence made this call during the launch of the National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum (NELEF) 2024 in Accra to equip Ghanaian youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive sustainable economic growth in a rapidly changing global landscape.

The forum scheduled to be held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra( UPSA) on Monday 23rd September is under the theme “Leading for Sustainable Economic Growth in a Multipolar World: The Role of Emerging Leaders."

The forum will bring together about 4,000 young leaders, solid professionals, and presidential aspirants to tackle the challenges facing the nation and shape its economic future.

It will provide a platform for emerging leaders to engage in open dialogue with seasoned professionals and presidential aspirants, ensuring that their voices and ideas are heard and considered. Extensive research conducted by VODEC Africa will be presented, offering valuable insights and actionable strategies for economic growth.

The media launch, held at the Mikaddo Centre in Labone, was attended by distinguished leaders, professionals, and emerging changemakers who expressed the urgent need for innovative leadership to overcome the nation’s pressing challenges.

Dr Tetteh in an interview with the media disclosed that the use of toxic mercury in mining operations was contributing to rising health problems, including birth defects, kidney diseases, and other serious illnesses among affected communities.

“The mercury that is put in the water is bringing illness. People are born with one eye, and some without limbs. Some have kidney diseases and other conditions. Galamsey is killing us,” he stated.

According to him, stakeholders, including politicians, police, and the military, were aware of the dangers of galamsey but have failed to take the necessary steps to eradicate it questioning whether these groups were benefiting from the illegal activity, thus impeding efforts to combat it.

Dr Tetteh also commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, for taking a bold stand against galamsey by sanctioning a local chief involved in the illegal activity. However, he urged the revered king and other traditional leaders to take further action and punish offenders of the law.

He also urged the youth to be vigilant and fight collaboratively to end the canker.

In his opening remarks, the CEO of VODEC Africa, a non-governmental organization,( NGO), Daniel Asomani emphasized the critical role of young leaders in reshaping Ghana’s economic future. He urged the youth to take an active role in leadership, highlighting the marginalization of many potential leaders due to a lack of resources and opportunities.

He noted that NELEF 2024 aims to foster collaboration among young leaders, professionals, and presidential aspirants to address key issues such as climate change, inequality, and technological disruption.

“The future of our nation rests on the shoulders of emerging leaders who are audacious enough to dream, innovate, and act. This forum is a call to action, a chance to bridge the gap and equip our young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to thrive" he added.