Archbishop Bonaventure Kwofie, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, has expressed the Catholic Church’s opposition to the strike action convened by Organised Labour in response to illegal mining (galamsey). 

He argued addressing the galamsey crisis required a comprehensive, non-partisan approach, to ensure long-term solutions.

During a media interview, Archbishop Kwofie called for more constructive ways to address the concerns of workers, warning that strike actions often cause unintended harm, especially to the most vulnerable members of society. 

He stressed that strikes, while possibly raising important issues, might undermine the broader efforts to solve the galamsey problem.

The Archbishop further revealed the environmental prayer walk against illegal mining, organised by the Accra Archdiocese, had been co-opted by certain political elements. 

He expressed concern that this political interference could derail the true purpose of the event, urging that the walk should remain focused on its environmental and spiritual goals.

Archbishop Kwofie acknowledged that while the grievances of Organised Labour may be valid, a more unified and open dialogue was needed to manage both the labour concerns and the galamsey crisis. 

He also pointed out illegal mining employed over four million people, highlighting the need for careful management of the issue to avoid negatively impacting the nation’s economy and livelihoods.