Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has made an impassioned plea to academia, urging them to take a more active role in addressing the critical issue of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
In his speech, Kufuor emphasized that while politicians have been at the forefront of the fight against galamsey, their efforts alone are insufficient to bring about lasting solutions. He highlighted the importance of involving academic experts, whose knowledge, research, and analytical capabilities can offer more effective, long-term strategies to tackle the issue.
Speaking at a special event hosted by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), the former president stressed the urgency of addressing illegal mining. He outlined the devastating consequences of galamsey, such as environmental degradation, the destruction of water bodies, and the loss of arable land, which pose significant threats to Ghana’s future.
Kufuor emphasized that this is not solely a political problem but one that demands a multidisciplinary approach. He urged the academic community to step forward and play a crucial role in finding solutions. “The issue of illegal mining and the responsible management of our natural resources requires critical analysis and immediate action to achieve sustainable, long-term outcomes,” he said. “I call on thought leaders, particularly academic institutions like GIMPA, to lead the conversations that will bring about these necessary solutions.”
Kufuor’s appeal comes at a time when illegal mining is one of Ghana’s most pressing issues, raising concerns about its environmental, public health, and economic impacts. Galamsey operations, often conducted in unauthorized areas without proper environmental oversight, have resulted in the contamination of major rivers, deforestation, and severe soil erosion. These activities have not only endangered Ghana’s natural resources but have also sparked tensions between local communities and mining operators.