The Founder and General Overseer of Action Chapel International, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, has warned that the continued destruction of Ghana’s environment through illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, poses a serious threat to the future of the country’s children and generations yet unborn.
He says the destruction of water bodies and farmlands is undermining the country’s ability to produce food and secure safe water for future generations.
Speaking during a church service on Sunday, August 16, Archbishop Duncan-Williams expressed concern about the manner in which Ghana’s natural resources are being exploited, warning that the consequences of current actions could extend far beyond the present generation.
He said illegal mining is not only destroying water bodies but also contaminating lands that are critical to agriculture and food production.
“We are poisoning the land. There are so many things we are doing,” he said.
The Archbishop also criticised the politicisation of efforts to tackle illegal mining, arguing that political considerations have often weakened attempts to enforce the law.
According to him, some political leaders may be unwilling to take firm action against galamsey operators for fear of losing votes or their parliamentary seats.
He said this has allowed lawlessness to persist despite the devastating effects of illegal mining on the environment and livelihoods.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams consequently called for stronger commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources, stressing that the country must consider the impact of its decisions on future generations.
He also urged Ghanaians to pray for the country, indicating that he intends to devote more time to intercession because of his growing concerns about Ghana’s future.
