Health experts are sounding the alarm over the severe impact of illegal mining, or "galamsey," on fertility rates in Ghana, linking the issue to the toxic chemicals used in the mining process.

Harmful substances such as mercury and cyanide, widely employed by illegal miners, are being identified as major threats to reproductive health in both men and women.

Dr. Rudolph Kantum Adageba, president of the Fertility Society of Ghana (FERSOG), highlighted these concerns during the 7th Annual General and Scientific Conference in Kumasi.

He explained that prolonged exposure to these chemicals could lead to infertility, abnormal DNA, and other significant long-term health complications.

Dr. Adageba called for immediate action, stressing that stricter enforcement of mining regulations is essential to safeguarding public health.

He urged the authorities to clamp down on illegal mining activities and ensure that environmental and health standards are met.

In his statement to the media, he further emphasised the importance of addressing these concerns urgently, noting that the effects of galamsey-related chemical exposure are already being seen across the country, particularly in areas close to mining operations.

“The sort of chemicals they use in galamsey can affect the reproductive system. You know heavy metals, when they enter the body, can affect the DNA of the sperm and the eggs. The DNA is the genetic code that gives the information to the type of organ that you develop.”

“So, if that DNA becomes defective, the children may become defective. In fact, it doesn’t relate only to IVF. Even natural conception. Those who conceive naturally can get those things,” he said.