It is a profound disappointment that our distinguished Ghana Armed Forces, under the leadership of Commander-in-Chief President Nana Akufo-Addo, have been unable to halt the devastating effects of illegal mining, known as galamsey. This destructive practice has severely damaged our river systems and the aquatic habitats they support.
The impact of galamsey has led to a dramatic decline in fish stocks and threatens to deplete entire river sources used for both commercial and residential purposes. Former Ambassador to India, Hon. Sam Pee Yalley, expressed these concerns during an appearance on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu.
Despite the government having spent 400 million Ghana cedis in the fight against illegal mining, the issue persists, and the administration’s failure to address it effectively has been labeled as a serious fraud. Yalley criticized the government’s tendency to engage in political blame games rather than seeking lasting solutions to prevent water shortages and environmental degradation.
He also condemned remarks by the Majority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyir, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, who suggested that the NDC was responsible for the pollution of river bodies. Yalley accused Annoh-Dompreh of failing to address the real challenges and urged President Akufo-Addo to organize a national conference involving all stakeholders to devise strategies for protecting forest reserves and river bodies.
Yalley expressed frustration with the current administration, claiming that Ghanaians have been misled by a party and leader who have failed to deliver tangible development over the past eight years. He noted that instead of progress, the country is experiencing increasing poverty and allegations of corruption.
In a related development, discussions on illegal mining have intensified, particularly following statements from Mr. Annoh-Dompreh during an emergency parliamentary session in Accra on Tuesday. Annoh-Dompreh defended the government’s record by claiming that the NDC’s tenure was marked by even greater water pollution. He welcomed a debate on the issue, asserting that an investigation would reveal that the NDC’s actions were more detrimental to water resources.
Annoh-Dompreh challenged the opposition to engage in a thorough debate, emphasizing that both sides of the political spectrum should be scrutinized for their roles in water pollution.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
