Director of Operations for the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Divine Nkrumah has expressed deep concern over the alarming health issues caused by illegal mining, known as “galamsey,” in Ghana.
Speaking on the Angel Morning Show (AMS) on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Divine Nkrumah highlighted the severe impact that galamsey is having on the health of Ghanaians.
“People are suffering due to the contamination caused by galamsey, leading to a significant increase in illnesses among Ghanaians,” he stated.
Nkrumah pointed out that children in areas heavily affected by galamsey are particularly vulnerable.
“Many children in these regions are developing skin diseases, and young women are experiencing genital infections due to the polluted water they use for bathing and washing,” he explained.
He also warned about the long-term consequences if immediate action is not taken. “If we don’t address this issue now, we could face a future where our young people are unable to have children due to the health problems they’re encountering in their youth, all because our water sources are being destroyed.”
According to Nkrumah, some children have even reported urinating blood after swimming or bathing in the contaminated water. He stressed that the severity of the situation is not being fully recognized. “Research from the Water Federation shows that chemicals from galamsey are poisoning our water sources, and the public is not fully aware of the dangers ahead,” he said.
He concluded by expressing disappointment in both the public and leadership. “We have failed ourselves, and our leaders are failing us as well by not guiding us on the right path,” he lamented.
