Green for Change Ghana, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to environmental conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development, has called on government to take immediate and decisive action to ban illegal mining, known locally as 'galamsey.'

The organisation also urged a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves and water bodies.

At a press conference in Damongo, Savannah Region, the Executive Director of Green for Change Ghana, John Balankoo Sumbo, highlighted the destructive impact of illegal mining on natural resources, livelihoods, and future generations.

He referred to the severe pollution of rivers like the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim, which have been contaminated with toxic chemicals from illegal mining operations.

"These rivers were once the lifeblood of many communities, providing clean water for drinking, farming, and sustaining local economies.

"Today, they are contaminated with toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide, making them unfit for any use. This isn’t just an environmental crisis; it’s a social and economic disaster waiting to happen," Mr. Sumbo lamented.

He further explained the broader consequences of illegal mining, noting that, "the pollution of rivers has made it difficult for farmers to irrigate their crops, leading to reduced agricultural productivity.

"Communities that once thrived on farming are now struggling to survive as their fertile lands have been rendered barren by toxic waste."

Mr Sumbo urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the government to act swiftly in banning illegal mining and protecting the environment.

"The government must increase its efforts to clamp down on illegal mining operations and enforce strict regulations to protect our forests and water bodies.

"If we don’t act now, we will leave future generations with a legacy of polluted water, degraded lands, and lost opportunities."

He also emphasised that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility.

"This is a call for all Ghanaians to recognise that our natural heritage is under threat. We must come together to protect our forests, rivers, and livelihoods," Mr. Sumbo added.

Green for Change Ghana is also calling on donor agencies, international organizations, and development partners to support environmental reclamation projects.

Mr. Sumbo stressed, "Reclaiming the environment is not a task that can be done by one organization or government alone. We need the support of donors and international partners to restore these ecosystems."

He concluded by emphasising the need for urgent, collective action.

"The clock is ticking, and every day without action, it brings us closer to environmental collapse. Let us unite to stop illegal mining, restore our environment, and safeguard the future of Ghana," Mr Sumbo stressed.