‘Deal with Galamsey, the Situation is Critical.’ – National House of Chiefs president tells Mahama.

The National House of Chiefs has strongly urged President John Mahama to act swiftly and forcefully to combat the expanding problem of illicit mining, or galamsey as it is known locally.

It cautions that there is a risk to the health of communities and babies. At a durbar on Tuesday, July 15, as part of President Mahama’s “Thank You Tour” of the area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs and the Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso in the Western North Region, brought up the matter.

Illegal mining operations are seriously contaminating water sources and putting entire communities at risk for serious health problems, he said. According to Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, “Galamsey is seriously impacting our water bodies and causing illnesses.”

“I am aware that the President has pledged to combat this threat on multiple occasions. Although we appreciate your efforts, there is an urgent emergency. In order to stop the illness outbreak, we need to stop galamsey immediately.

“Health facilities are recording complications affecting foetuses,” he stated, highlighting the severity of the situation.

He also disclosed that health facilities in afflicted areas are witnessing an increase in cases of disease, particularly among pregnant women and unborn infants.

The National House of Chiefs promised its unwavering support in the fight against galamsey and called for greater government resolution. Ogyeahoho said, “As chiefs, we pledge to assist you in containing the threat.”