The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana, made up of 19 prominent Charismatic church leaders, have called for an immediate halt to all small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, through a temporary ban.

This urgent plea was made in response to the widespread environmental degradation and destruction of livelihoods caused by illegal mining.

In a strongly-worded statement signed by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams of Action Chapel International and other influential clergy, the Apostolic Fathers expressed their deep concern about the devastating impact of galamsey.

They pointed out the far-reaching consequences of illegal mining, including the contamination of water bodies, deforestation, and the destruction of fertile farmland.

The clergymen include Archbishop Charles Agyinasare - Perez Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills - United Denominations (Lighthouse Group of Churches), Apostle-General Sam Korankye-Ankrah - Royalhouse Chapel, Bishop N.A.

Tackie-Yarboi - Victory Bible Church International, Rev.

Eastwood Anaba - Fountain Gate Chapel (Eastwood Anaba Ministries), Rev Bob Asare, Faith Alive Chapel International, Bishop Dr Gideon Titi-Ofei, Pleasant Place Church and Rev.

Dr.

Robert Ampiah-Kwofie - Global Revival Ministries.

The rest are Rev.

Steve Mensah - Charismatic Evangelistic Ministry, Bishop Gordon Kisseih - Life International Church, Bishop Victor Osei - Life International Church, Bishop Dr.

Oppong Adu-Gyamfi - International Charismatic Church, Bishop Dr.

Mensah - Full Gospel Church International, Rev.

Dr.

Ebenezer Markwei - Living Streams International, Rev.

Dr.

Lawrence Tetteh - Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev.

Dr.

Isaac Quaye - Word of Life Miracle Centre, Rt.

Rev.

Dr.

Anyani Boadum - Jesus Generation Ministries, Rev.

Dr.

Seth Ablorh - Manna Mission Church The Apostolic Fathers highlighted the critical nature of the situation, stating that galamsey has polluted rivers and water sources, leaving communities without access to safe drinking water.

This crisis, they emphasized, is not just about environmental destruction but also threatens the health, well-being, and livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians, especially those in rural areas.

They urged these stakeholders to immediately stop their involvement and prioritize the well-being of the nation over personal gain.

Quoting scripture, the Apostolic Fathers emphasized the need for repentance and urged all those involved in galamsey to turn from their destructive practices.

The Apostolic Fathers also called on regulatory bodies like the Water Resources Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce stricter regulations and hold illegal miners accountable.

They urged civil society organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders to intensify their advocacy efforts and push for the full enforcement of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

They stressed the importance of sustainable mining practices that protect both the environment and the livelihoods of citizens, calling on the government to lead the way in restoring Ghana's land and resources.