JoyNews organized a public forum on Monday, December 4, dubbed the ‘National Dialogue on Illegal Mining’ in its bid to help nip the illegal mining canker in the bud.

The dialogue, themed 'Poisoned for Gold, took place at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, and was prompted by JoyNews' Erastus Asare Donkor's documentary, which revealed the harmful effects of illegal mining in the country as well as the health risks associated with the use of mercury to collect gold.

The public forum was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Forestry Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Minerals Commission, researchers, environmental agencies, government bodies, advocacy groups, and traditional authorities among others.

These participants shared their thoughts as well as proffered solutions to tackle the menace.

The forum also paved the way for residents in affected communities to air their grievances and engage in a constructive dialogue with policymakers.

Find below pictures from the event: