The severe impact on our water bodies, environment, and biodiversity has ignited a significant public debate, as some regions face critical water shortages. This issue was discussed on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor FM 92.3, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
Sanja Nanja, Member of Parliament for Atebubu Amantin and a member of the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, criticized the lack of political will from the President and security forces. He accused them of prioritizing political and personal interests over the welfare of the nation. Nanja warned that if the current situation is not addressed, it could lead to severe health and developmental repercussions for the country.
He emphasized the need to restore moral and cultural values among communities living near river sources. Nanja called for renewed efforts to protect natural water sources, promote afforestation, and address environmental destruction. He also highlighted the role of traditional leaders, urging them to collaborate with the government to implement effective environmental protection policies. Some chiefs have compromised their responsibilities by contributing to environmental degradation, particularly in mining areas that are crucial sources of drinking water.
In related developments, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin suggested that some Members of Parliament might be involved in or promote illegal mining activities. He made this statement during a two-day emergency sitting of Parliament, where MPs discussed the escalating damage caused by illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
The MPs debated the adverse effects of galamsey and criticized successive governments for failing to address the issue. The debate saw a heated exchange of accusations between the NPP and NDC parties.
Frank Annoh Dompreh, MP for Nsawam Adoagyir and the Majority Chief Whip, accused the opposition NDC of causing more damage to water bodies through galamsey than the NPP. “If we investigate both sides of the House (NPP and NDC), I can tell you that the NDC has polluted the water more than us. So let’s get matters straight,” he stated.
The Minority NDC condemned this comment, with its leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson arguing that the situation has worsened under the NPP despite their efforts to address it. “If the President has failed to curb illegal mining, he should admit it. If the Defence Minister has failed to tackle galamsey, he should admit it. The issue is very serious; our livelihood is at stake,” Forson said.
In response, the Speaker of Parliament directed criticism at MPs, accusing some of being involved in environmental destruction. He urged them to lead by example in the fight against galamsey. “Who are the people participating in galamsey? Some of you are involved, and the public is aware. It is disgraceful that we have reached this point. Look at the damage to our water bodies,” Bagbin said.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
