Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has issued a dire warning, stating that the nation is on a “suicidal path” if it fails to stop illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey.”
Mr. Ablakwa’s comments follow calls from religious groups and civil society organizations to declare a state of emergency to combat the widespread environmental damage caused by galamsey. Despite these calls, President John Dramani Mahama has said such a measure would only be used as a last resort.
The Foreign Affairs Minister expressed confidence that the Mahama administration’s efforts would be successful in the long run.
According to Ablakwa, achieving victory in the fight against galamsey would be the best way to honor the memory of the eight government officials who died in a helicopter crash on August 6.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
