Editorial
Let’s fight ‘galamsey’ head-on
Illegal small-scale mining, known as ‘galamsey,’ is wreaking havoc on our communities and environment. It is imperative that we act now to put an end to this practice before future generations suffer as a result.
Galamsey has significantly contributed to habitat destruction, devastation of farmlands, and pollution of the air, water, and soil.
Horrifying sights of stillborn newborns with malformations in galamsey locations are all attributed to galamsey in Ghana.
Many health problems, including cancer, mercury poisoning, and respiratory disorders, are brought on by the pollution of our water bodies, which makes it difficult for people to access clean drinking water.
Mosquitoes are thriving in the runoff water from abandoned mine holes because of the deteriorating environment. As a result, Ghana’s natural beauty has declined.
Galamsey is primarily to blame for Ghana’s low food production, fluctuations in food prices, and high cost of living, particularly in areas where the practice is common as it displaces farmers.
Unfortunately, it appears that the more we discuss this subject, the more ‘galamseyers’ engage in their illicit operations with impunity, seriously harming the environment in the process. This is what makes the situation so unsettling.
It is clear that people who participate in the practice have no regard for the tremendous harm their acts cause to the environment and local residents’ health, among other things. Their only concern is maximising their profits at the expense of others.
In fact, tourists looking for sustainable destinations may be discouraged by these detrimental effects on the environment which is endangering both the current and the future generations.
What kind of legacy are we leaving for future generations, and where is Ghana headed?
The Spectator is pleading with the authorities to act right now because these illicit operations are endangering the health and safety of the communities around them and nobody is safe.
There are more people going into galamsey, and those who do so say there are no jobs available. Even women can occasionally be drawn into galamsey, despite the fact that it is typically associated with men.
According to available data, the threat of galamsey is linked to child fatalities, cognitive impairments that impair children’s ability to learn, and congenital malformations. We are therefore pushing for more research on the detrimental effects of galamsey on women’s and children’s health.
We hope the government will create more job opportunities for the youth.
We also implore the government to collaborate with religious bodies, Civil Society Organisations, traditional authoritis, communities among others to take urgent steps to fight the menace of galamsey, especially by upholding the legislation that forbids it in order to create a healthy environment for all.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
