Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey Voices Frustration Over Government's Inability to Fight Galamsey

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, a leading figure in the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has voiced his deep frustration with the country’s leadership for their inability to effectively address the rampant illegal mining activities that are devastating Ghana’s water bodies. According to Dr. Ashigbey, the problem is not just a matter of inadequate security measures but a glaring failure in leadership at all levels, from the highest offices to local authorities.

"Illegal mining in our water bodies is happening right in front of us, yet nothing is being done to stop it. This is a clear failure of leadership," Dr. Ashigbey remarked, pointing fingers at District Chief Executives (DCEs), Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs), police commanders, and intelligence units who he believes are turning a blind eye to the crisis.

The environmental disaster caused by these illegal mining activities, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ has been an ongoing challenge for the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). Dr. Ashigbey expressed grave concerns during an interview with JoyNews, highlighting that the pollution is so severe that even treated water might still carry harmful metallic substances. He questioned the safety of bottled and sachet water consumed by Ghanaians, including those living in urban areas like Accra. "How can we be certain that these heavy metals are being effectively removed from the water we drink?" he asked, raising alarms about potential health risks.

The gravity of the situation has led Dr. Ashigbey to call for more decisive actions. He emphasized the urgency for the Media Coalition Against Galamsey to step up their efforts, suggesting that it might be time to take legal action against those who fail to protect the environment and public health. "We need to enlist lawyers to help us bring these issues to court. It’s time to hold people accountable for the damage they’re causing to our environment and the future generations," he urged.

Dr. Ashigbey also appealed to President Akufo-Addo to emulate the firm stance of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who has been destooling chiefs found complicit in illegal mining activities. He questioned why local leaders, particularly DCEs and MCEs overseeing districts with severely affected rivers like the Pra and Tano, have not been removed from their positions. "Why are these regional ministers, who should be coordinating the efforts to protect our water bodies, still in office?" Dr. Ashigbey questioned, calling for a thorough review of the leadership responsible for these regions.

As the galamsey crisis continues to threaten Ghana's water resources and public health, Dr. Ashigbey’s call to action serves as a stark reminder that more stringent measures and accountability are needed to safeguard the country’s natural resources for current and future generations.