The nominee for Minister of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has emphatically stated her commitment to fostering collaboration among state institutions to combat the escalating crisis of illegal mining and other environmental crimes within Ghana. Her remarks underscore a strategic approach to tackling this complex challenge, highlighting the need for a coordinated, multi-stakeholder strategy.
As a medical doctor and environmental advocate, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings emphasized the inherent complexity of galamsey and the necessity of a comprehensive, tailored approach. She envisions a strategy that involves the collaboration of various agencies, including Land and Natural Resources, Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and other stakeholders.
Specifically, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings addressed the issue of galamsey, stressing the critical role of the Ministry’s agencies in stemming the tide of illegal activities. She affirmed that, upon receiving the nod as Minister of MEST, she would rally all resources under the ministry and collaborate with both local and international partners to address pollution across the country. She stated that the protection of the planet is a paramount concern, emphasizing the need for stringent regulatory enforcement.
Furthermore, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings highlighted the significance of the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to climate change, loss and damage, plastic pollution, and electronic waste, acknowledging the importance of addressing these critical environmental issues. She mentioned the importance of leveraging scientific research conducted by the CSIR to support national development efforts.
For instance, a recent Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Water Research Institute (CSIR-WRI) study revealed that over 60% of Ghana’s waterbodies are currently contaminated by illegal mining activities, posing significant risks to human health and livelihoods. The Forestry Commission’s latest report indicates that 8,923.8 hectares of the country’s forest reserves, equivalent to 12,500 football fields, have been heavily impacted by illegal mining. This underscores the severity of the problem.
Members of the Appointments Committee questioned the nominee on her knowledge of environmental issues and her plan to effectively manage emerging challenges within the sector. She was also asked about the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to climate change, loss and damage, plastic pollution, and electronic waste, to which she offered competent answers. The committee also sought her views on how to improve the attrition rate of scientists within the agencies under MEST, and how to effectively leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance research capabilities.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stressed that given the environment’s critical role as a natural resource for sustainable development, her priority would be to safeguard it through robust regulatory enforcement. She proposed prioritizing oversight of the policy banning single-use plastics, recognizing it as a crucial step in mitigating waste pollution. She also stated a commitment to supporting CSIR’s efforts to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to drive research and development for national development. She asserted that with the support of all stakeholders and citizens, she believes the country can protect its environment from pollution through proactive measures.
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Source: Graphic Online
