Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, has reiterated the need for an urgent declaration of a state of emergency in parts of Ghana severely affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking in an interview on Joy FM's Top Story on Monday, April 28, he stressed the importance of managing Ghana’s natural resources with a mindset geared toward protecting future generations. He pointed out that the concerns being raised today are as relevant as those made under previous administrations.

He urged President John Dramani Mahama to act decisively.

“In places where armed groups are attacking Forestry Commission officers, a state of emergency is definitely required. The urgency with which the government addressed issues like fuel shortages and electricity crises should be the same or even greater, for illegal mining,” he added.

“The windows are closing. If we don’t act swiftly and decisively, we will reach a point of no return, where the devastation to our environment and public health cannot be reversed,” he said.

Dr. Ashigbey further commended the citizens who have taken to the streets to demand stronger action from the government over the menace.

“We must commend our brothers and sisters who are out there protesting. Earlier engagements with them indicated that such actions were being planned, and it's encouraging to see citizens rise up to demand accountability from those we have elected to lead us,” he said.