The Ghana Nation­al Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) has ap­pealed to the govern­ment to take immediate and decisive action against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

At a press briefing at the week­end here in Kumasi, the Association highlighted its deep concern over the destruction of Ghana's water bodies and forests caused by illegal mining.

The occasion was part of the Asso­ciation's initiative, dubbed 'Operation save our waters: A quest for equity.' Addressed by Mr Godwin Armah, the General Secretary of GNASSM, it emphasised the unity displayed by various stakeholders, including organ­ised labour, civil society organisations (CSOs), and religious bodies, all of whom have expressed their disapproval of illegal mining activities, stressing "this collective voice, according to GNASSM, is unprecedented in address­ing an issue of national significance".

Mr Armah outlined the Association's long-standing efforts to prevent illegal mining and stressed their commitment to supporting the fight against the ongoing menace.