The International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Ghana chapter, has averred that Ghana is losing the fight against illegal mining, otherwise known as galamsey, due to internal divisions.

In a statement signed by the association’s president, Sampson Opare-Agyeman, the IFMA described galamsey as a national emergency that had to be tackled as a collective responsibility and not an individual one.

“The fight against galamsey is a collective effort. Every institution, every citizen, and every leader must take ownership of this battle if we are to succeed,” the statement reads.
However, the association expressed worry over the fact that political differences have divided the nation in the fight against galamsey and discouraged such behaviour among Ghanaians, claiming that Ghana cannot win the fight against galamsey with such behaviour.

“We must not let political differences divide us in the fight against illegal mining, “the statement reads, “The devastation galamsey causes affects every regardless of political affiliation, tribe, or social status.”

Highlighting the devastating effects of galamsey on the environment, the IFMA made an urgent call to Ghanaians to take every necessary action to stop illegal mining immediately.
“The time for talk has passed; now is the time for action. Illegal mining must stop. We cannot afford to wait another day. Our environment, our economy, and, our children’s future depend on it.”

Also, the IFMA commended the media for its active role in the fight against galamsey and discouraged the media from taking a break in the fight until the menace had ended utterly.

“We at the IFMA Ghana commend the media for the great work they have done in exposing the horrors of galamsey. Your voice has brought attention to an issue that threatens the very survival of the country. However, this is not the time to rest… Keep this issue at the forefront until the change we all seek is realized,” part of the statement reads.