The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has reiterated its call for the declaration of a state of emergency to tackle illegal mining, warning that the growing threat posed by galamsey demands stronger and more radical government intervention.

President of the Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, urged the government to step up its efforts to curb illegal mining, citing its harmful effects on the environment, public health and the livelihoods of citizens.

In an interview with Accra-based Citi FM, he cautioned that the consequences of galamsey extend beyond the destruction of forests and water bodies, with potential dangers to the food chain and the health of communities.

“You cannot stop fighting galamsey. It is poisonous and very dangerous, creating other sicknesses, introducing illegal drugs into the water system, the food chain and etc,” he said.

According to Most Rev. Gyamfi, the scale of the crisis calls for a stronger demonstration of leadership and a willingness to take exceptional steps to protect the country and its people.

“Since the president of Ghana held the sword and swore to protect and defend Ghana, we should see him do certain things radically and these are situations where we say a state of emergency should be declared on this deplorable and wicked situation so that Ghanaians will be seen to be really and clearly defended,” he said.

The Bishops’ Conference believes that the continuing damage caused by illegal mining makes a compelling case for a more decisive national strategy to address the menace and protect affected communities.

Most Rev. Gyamfi emphasised that the government must maintain a determined and sustained campaign against galamsey to prevent further environmental destruction and protect the health and welfare of Ghanaians.