Lions International, District 418, Ghana, has issued a strong condemnation of the increasing illegal mining activities, commonly known as ‘galamsey’, which continue to devastate communities across the country. 

In a press release on September 12, 2024, the organisation highlighted the urgent need for action, describing the situation as a serious threat to Ghana’s environment, public health, and future prosperity.

The organisation expressed particular concern over the environmental damage caused by ‘galamsey’, noting that over 2.5 million hectares of forest land have been destroyed. 

The contamination of rivers with toxic substances like mercury and cyanide has made water bodies unsafe for consumption and aquatic life, while farmlands have become unfit for agricultural use.

The effects on human health were also underscored, with Lions International highlighting the alarming rise in childhood cancers and other serious illnesses, which they attribute to the pollution caused by illegal mining. 

"This toxic pollution is severely affecting our human resources," the statement read, adding that vulnerable families are facing increased risks of hunger and malnutrition due to the degradation of farmlands.

Lions International has long championed causes such as the fight against childhood cancer, hunger relief, and environmental protection, and the organisation warned that the continued spread of illegal mining threatens these efforts. 

As the world observes Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, the group urged all involved in ‘galamsey’ to reconsider their actions, citing the growing number of cancer cases as a stark reminder of the human toll of environmental degradation.

The press release issued a clarion call for the government to impose an immediate and comprehensive ban on illegal and unregulated small-scale mining. 

Lions International stressed that the government, which holds natural resources in trust for the citizens, must demonstrate strong leadership to combat the practice.

“We stand firm in our commitment to demand and support government action to fight ‘galamsey’,” said Dr Helena Asamoah-Hassan, District Governor of Lions International, District 418. The organisation pledged its continued support for efforts to protect children, ensure food security, and safeguard the environment, urging swift and sustained action to eradicate the illegal mining menace.

In closing, the statement reaffirmed Lions International’s dedication to the motto, "We Serve", and called for collective action to safeguard the future of Ghana.

EK