President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwesi Gyamfi, has strongly condemned illegal mining activities, known locally as "galamsey," for their destructive impact on the country's ecosystems.

He attributed the galamsey menace to the greed and wickedness of those involved.

Speaking at the Media Coalition Against Galamsey Forum on Wednesday, September 11, Most Rev. Gyamfi called for a complete ban on the illegal practice due to its devastating environmental effects.

"Under previous partial and social visits, to our people in their localities, as well as our many travels across the country, we see and also denounce and decry the wicked and greedy destruction of our forest resources,” he said.

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“The conference is deeply concerned about the persistent and alarming levels of environmental degradation caused by such activities,” he lamented.

He highlighted the moral responsibility of Ghanaians as stewards of creation to protect the environment for present and future generations.

However, he noted that illegal mining activities undermine this duty, leading to significant environmental degradation.

Most Rev. Matthew Kwesi Gyamfi further pointed out that the complicity of certain political leaders, traditional chiefs, and the lack of political will have worsened the problem of illegal mining.

He expressed frustration with what he termed as the government's "lip service" in addressing the issue, regardless of political affiliation.

He urged for immediate and decisive action, stating, "We call for action not tomorrow, but now and right from this press conference and all hands must get onboard."