Health professionals across the country are urging President Akufo-Addo to impose a direct and immediate ban on all forms of small-scale mining.
The call comes amid growing concerns about the detrimental health effects associated with mining activities, particularly illegal mining, often referred to as 'galamsey.' In a joint statement, the group, consisting of doctors, nurses, environmental health officers, and other allied health workers, highlighted the alarming rise in respiratory and waterborne diseases in mining communities.
The health workers warned that continued mining without stringent regulations poses a severe threat to the health and well-being of Ghanaians, especially those in rural areas.
The coalition's statement highlighted the significant public health risks associated with mining, including water pollution, deforestation, and air contamination.
According to the health workers, toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, often used in mining, are leaching into water bodies, endangering both humans and wildlife. "The rise in cases of respiratory illnesses, skin infections, and waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea in these communities is a direct consequence of the unchecked mining activities," the September 6 statement read. "We are witnessing an ecological disaster with direct implications for human health, and this must be addressed with urgency." Read also: I put my presidency on the line for galamsey fight- Akufo-Addo The group also wants all political parties to make a public declaration and document their commitment to fighting illegal mining.
The group comprises the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA), the Health Services Workers Union of Ghana - TUC, the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers' Union (MELPWU), the Mortuary Workers' Association of Ghana (MOWAG), the Ghana Association of Certified Registered Anesthetists (GACRA), the Health Accounting Staff Association (HASAG), and Ghana Physician Assistants Association (GPAA).
Read: Galamsey: Ghana is committing a national genocide - Rev.
Frimpong-Manso The coalition called on President Akufo-Addo to implement a total ban on mining activities, similar to the temporary ban placed on illegal mining in 2017.
While some steps have been taken by the government, including the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), the health professionals argue that these efforts have not been sufficient to curb the illegal operations that continue to devastate communities. "The government must take a firm stance on this issue, prioritize the health of its citizens, and protect the environment for future generations," the health workers emphasized. "A direct ban on mining activities is necessary to halt the irreversible damage being done." President Akufo-Addo's administration has previously stated its commitment to tackling illegal mining and restoring Ghana's water bodies.
But the health professionals believe more aggressive action is needed to safeguard public health.
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