The Archbishop of Action Chapel International, Nicholas Duncan-Williams, delivered a sobering message during a recent church service, emphasizing the urgent need for national prayers and political unity in the face of a growing environmental crisis exacerbated by illegal mining operations, commonly known as galamsey. Duncan-Williams expressed deep concern over the degradation of water bodies and farmlands across Ghana, warning that the consequences of this unsustainable practice could severely jeopardize food security and public health. His remarks came as a direct response to the continued destruction of rivers and arable land through the widespread practice of galamsey, a phenomenon that has been a persistent source of worry for many Ghanaians.
“We’re praying concerning the healing of our water bodies and lands, that our bodies and lands will not be poisoned through this galamsey,” he stated, highlighting the profound risk this activity poses. He explicitly cautioned that the widespread pollution and land degradation could eventually render agricultural land incapable of supporting food production, effectively rendering it barren. This concern extends beyond the agricultural sector, with Duncan-Williams expressing worry about the potential long-term impacts on Ghana’s food security and the livelihoods of countless farmers.
He underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that the continuous degradation of these vital resources could lead to a point where land is rendered incapable of producing crops. “A time may come where we cannot sow and yield fruit or crops in the land because the land is poisoned. It can’t bear fruit. It can’t yield the crops we need,” he articulated, emphasizing the existential threat to Ghana’s food supply.
Furthermore, Duncan-Williams raised critical concerns about the potential health implications of consuming food produced from contaminated lands. He warned that harmful substances from illegal mining could enter the food chain, posing a significant risk to consumers. “We need to pray for our agriculture sector and for the Minister of Agriculture. We need to pray that there will be no food shortage in our land,” he asserted, stressing the importance of addressing this issue.
The Archbishop also acknowledged the political complexities within Ghana, noting that the two-party system often contributes to divisions among citizens. He urged Ghanaians to move beyond political bitterness and division, emphasizing the need for unity and brotherly love. “It looks like this two-party democratic system we are operating is dividing us as a nation and it’s turning us into enemies,” he stated, advocating for a more collaborative and harmonious approach to national governance.
The police have subsequently arrested two suspects over a murder of a 54-year-old man who was shot and killed during a confrontation with his wife while he was working on a galamsey site. The ECG has announced a 4-day power outage schedule for parts of Accra West, highlighting a significant infrastructure challenge facing the region. This incident underscores the challenges facing Ghana’s power grid and the need for continued investment in reliable energy infrastructure. The Archbishop’s message serves as a critical call to action, urging a renewed commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future for the nation.
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Source: Adom Online
