“illegal Mining is a threat to our lives; We must stand up and protect the future” – Sadick Adams urges Ghanaians

Head of Sports at Angel Broadcast Network (ABN), Sadick Adams, has called on Ghanaians to take urgent action against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, warning that it poses a grave threat to the future of the country. Speaking in a televised interview on Thursday, Adams emphasized that the widespread destruction caused by illegal mining activities is endangering not only Ghana’s natural resources but also the health and livelihoods of millions of people.

“Illegal mining is a threat to our lives. It’s not just about the environment anymore; it’s about the very future of this country. We should wake up and protect the future before it’s too late,” Adams stated passionately.

He pointed out that galamsey operations, often carried out without regard for environmental regulations, are causing irreparable damage to Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmlands. Adams, who has been vocal on the issue, cited the contamination of water bodies, soil degradation, and the displacement of communities as direct consequences of illegal mining.

“The rivers we drink from are being poisoned with mercury, our farmlands are being destroyed, and people are being forced out of their homes because of these illegal activities. How long can we continue to allow this?” Adams questioned.

The journalist expressed his frustration at the government’s inability to effectively clamp down on galamsey operators despite several initiatives and policies aimed at curbing the menace. He stressed that corruption and a lack of political will are enabling the illegal miners to continue their operations with impunity.

“Every government claims to be fighting illegal mining, but we all see that it is still happening, sometimes even with the help of those in authority. We need to take responsibility as citizens, put pressure on our leaders, and hold them accountable,” Adams said.

He also highlighted the long-term consequences of galamsey, warning that if immediate action is not taken, future generations will suffer from the depletion of natural resources and the lasting effects of environmental degradation. Adams called on communities, civil society, and the media to intensify efforts to raise awareness and put an end to illegal mining.

“We owe it to our children and their children to leave behind a country where they can live and thrive. If we don’t act now, there will be nothing left for them,” he added.

Adams’ remarks come amid growing concerns about the resurgence of illegal mining activities in various parts of the country, despite government crackdowns. Several communities, especially in the Western and Ashanti regions, continue to report the presence of illegal miners who are causing destruction to farmlands and water bodies.

In recent years, efforts to combat illegal mining have included the launch of Operation Vanguard, a military-led task force aimed at stopping the activities of galamsey operators. However, these efforts have been met with mixed results, with some accusing the authorities of turning a blind eye to the involvement of politically connected individuals in illegal mining.

Adams ended his appeal by encouraging Ghanaians to unite in the fight against illegal mining and take ownership of the problem. “This is our land, and if we don’t fight for it, nobody will. We must all come together to save what’s left of our environment and secure a future for the next generation,” he concluded.

As the nation grapples with the ongoing galamsey crisis, many are looking to the government, environmental groups, and citizens to take decisive action in safeguarding the country’s natural resources for generations to come.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Accra.