Health workers warn galamsey is fueling a surge in diseases

Health workers across Ghana are calling on President Nana Akufo-Addo to immediately impose a total ban on all forms of small-scale mining, citing the alarming health and environmental impacts of such activities, particularly illegal mining or ‘galamsey.’

In a joint statement, the group, which includes doctors, nurses, environmental health officers, and other allied health workers, highlighted the rising prevalence of respiratory and waterborne diseases in communities affected by mining.

The coalition expressed concerns about the increasing public health risks linked to unchecked mining activities, which contribute to water pollution, deforestation, and air contamination. Toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, commonly used in mining operations, are seeping into local water bodies, posing significant health threats to both humans and wildlife.

“The rise in cases of respiratory illnesses, skin infections, and waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea in these communities is a direct consequence of the unchecked mining activities,” the statement released on September 6 warned.

The health professionals underscored the urgency of addressing what they called an “ecological disaster” that is threatening the well-being of Ghanaians, especially those in rural areas.

In addition to calling for an immediate mining ban, the coalition urged all political parties to publicly declare their commitment to combat illegal mining.

The statement was signed by several key health organizations, including the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA), the Health Services Workers Union of Ghana, and the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union, among others.

While the government has made previous efforts to regulate illegal mining, such as establishing the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) and implementing a temporary ban in 2017, the health professionals argue that these actions have not been sufficient. They called for stronger and more decisive measures to protect both public health and the environment.

“The government must take a firm stance on this issue, prioritize the health of its citizens, and protect the environment for future generations,” the group emphasized. They believe that a total ban on mining activities is necessary to halt the ongoing damage caused by illegal operations.

President Akufo-Addo has previously pledged to tackle illegal mining and restore Ghana’s water bodies, but the health professionals are urging more aggressive action to safeguard public health in the face of escalating environmental degradation and related health crises.

Full statement: