Some Health Sector Unions and Professional Associations have called for urgent action against small-scale mining and illegal mining activities, commonly known as Galamsey, which they say are causing severe environmental and public health crises in Ghana.
The unions expressed alarm over the unchecked destruction of forest reserves and water bodies, highlighting the grave threats posed to public health and the ecosystem.
Despite numerous warnings and public discussions, the situation continues to deteriorate, with rampant pollution from harmful chemicals like mercury, lead, and cyanide. "The vast destruction of arable lands, deforestation, and pollution of water bodies continue unabated, leaving irreversible damage to our environment," the statement read.
The unions also pointed to allegations of complicity by some political and traditional leaders and the apparent laxity in law enforcement.
The Ghana Water Company has reported a significant reduction in water production due to pollution from Galamsey activities, with a 60% decrease in the Western Region and 30% in the Central Region.
Additionally, Ghana's cocoa production has been severely affected, resulting in lower yields and reduced quality.
Scientific studies have linked pollution to a rise in birth defects, kidney diseases, cancers, and other serious medical conditions.
The unions warned that without immediate action, Ghana faces an environmental catastrophe that will severely compromise the health and future of its people.
The unions made several demands, including a total ban on small-scale mining, whether legal or illegal and stronger regulatory enforcement.
They also called on all political parties to publicly commit to fighting illegal mining activities. "As health professionals, we are duty-bound to advocate for the health and safety of the public.
We urge the President of the Republic of Ghana to take these necessary and urgent actions to halt the destruction caused by Galamsey," the statement added.
The unions included the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA), and the Health Services Workers Union of Ghana - TUC.
The remaining were the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers' Union (MELPWU), Mortuary Workers' Association of Ghana (MOWAG), Ghana Association of Certified Registered Anesthetists (GACRA), Health Accounting Staff Association (HASAG), and the Ghana Physician Assistants Association (GPAA).