Director of Programmes and Policy Engagement at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr Kwame Pumpuni Asante, has called for urgent and drastic measures to tackle the menace of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, August 16, he warned that the canker continues to pose an existential threat to Ghana’s environment, economy, and future generations.

“Very drastic action has to be taken to deal with this galamsey problem. The damage it is causing to our rivers, forests, and farmlands cannot be overstated. If we fail to act decisively now, we will pay an even heavier price as a nation,” Dr Asante said.

He added that piecemeal interventions over the years had proven inadequate in curbing the illegal activity.

Dr Asante also linked the urgency of addressing galamsey to the recent tragic helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of eight high-ranking officials, including Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

“The ministers who lost their lives were deeply involved in finding solutions to this crisis. Their deaths remind us of the scale of the challenge and the need to honour their memory with real action,” he observed.

The victims were laid to rest at a state funeral held on Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra.

Dr Asante noted that while the nation mourns, it must also reflect on the urgent reforms needed to protect natural resources.

“This is the time for leadership that goes beyond words. The galamsey fight must be won, no matter how difficult,” he stressed.