As Ghana grapples with the devastating effects of illegal mining, Catholic Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, John Bonaventure Kwofie, has publicly urged former President John Dramani Mahama to honour his campaign promise to eradicate galamsey.
Delivering his Easter Sunday message at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Accra, Archbishop Kwofie voiced deep concern over the country’s environmental degradation, stressing that Mahama’s pledge to end illegal mining—particularly in protected forest zones—must be fulfilled.
“This is about integrity,” he emphasized, adding that safeguarding the nation’s environment is both a moral and national duty.
The Archbishop’s call comes amid widespread destruction caused by galamsey: polluted rivers, damaged farmlands, and health hazards in affected communities.
Despite years of activism from faith leaders, environmentalists, and civil society groups, illegal mining remains rampant, casting doubt on political promises made to end it.
Mahama had committed to ending galamsey within 120 days of taking office—a deadline that is rapidly approaching. The Archbishop’s remarks now put pressure on the former president and his team to show real progress.
He reminded the nation that environmental stewardship is a sacred responsibility, one that transcends politics and demands urgent, sustained action. Ghana, he said, cannot afford to trade its natural resources for short-term gain at the expense of future generations.
While the Church continues to champion environmental protection, Kwofie’s Easter message stands out as a bold challenge to political leadership.
As the country edges closer to the promised deadline, the spotlight is firmly on Mahama to deliver on his word.
The broader message is clear: if Ghana is to tackle illegal mining meaningfully, government promises must be backed by enforceable policies, firm action, and transparent results—not rhetoric.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
