The Ghana United Nations Association (GUNA) has expressed deep concern over the worsening environmental damage caused by illegal mining, locally known as "galamsey," which continues to devastate the country.

In a press release signed by Selaasie Lhal Hiadzi, the Director of Administration, GUNA called for urgent and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to address the destructive effects of galamsey on Ghana’s environment, economy, and public health.

'Galamsey has become a significant threat to Ghana’s natural resources, leaving widespread environmental degradation in its wake.

The illegal mining activities have led to the destruction of fertile lands, the contamination of major rivers with toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, and deforestation.

These actions have not only disrupted local ecosystems but also pose severe public health risks to communities living near affected areas, the statement said.

According to GUNA, uncontrolled mining operations are having disastrous consequences on agriculture, water supply, and biodiversity.

Large areas of land once used for farming are now barren, severely undermining food security.

Water sources, essential for drinking, fishing, and irrigation, are being polluted, threatening both human health and aquatic life, the statement said.

The use of harmful chemicals in galamsey operations is of particular concern.

Exposure to mercury and other toxic substances has been linked to severe health issues, including neurological damage and birth defects, placing entire communities at risk.

While illegal mining offers short-term financial gains for a few individuals, GUNA warned that the long-term economic consequences are devastating for the country.

The statement noted that the destruction of arable land and polluted water bodies is threatening the agricultural sector, a vital component of Ghana's economy.

This, in turn, undermines sustainable development efforts and jeopardizes the livelihoods of many Ghanaians.

In light of the escalating crisis, GUNA has called on the government, traditional leaders, local communities, civil society organizations, and the private sector to take decisive action. They outlined several key measures, including:

Strengthening Law Enforcement: GUNA urged the government to intensify efforts to enforce environmental laws, prosecute offenders, and dismantle the networks that enable illegal mining.

Promoting Sustainable Mining Practices: The association advocated for the promotion of legal and environmentally friendly mining operations, suggesting that small-scale miners should be supported to obtain licenses and operate within sustainable guidelines.

Community Engagement and Education: GUNA stressed the importance of raising awareness in local communities about the dangers of galamsey and the benefits of environmental protection. They called for communities to be actively involved in efforts to combat illegal mining.

Restoring Degraded Lands: GUNA emphasized the need for a national rehabilitation program to restore lands destroyed by illegal mining. They suggested reforestation projects, soil restoration, and the cleaning of polluted water bodies to revitalize ecosystems and promote sustainable livelihoods.

International Support: The association called on global partners, including the United Nations, to provide technical assistance, funding, and capacity-building initiatives to help Ghana tackle the galamsey crisis.

GUNA concluded by highlighting the urgent need for collaboration across all sectors to combat the growing threat posed by illegal mining. "The environmental degradation caused by galamsey is not just a national issue; it is a crisis that threatens our collective future," the statement said.