The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana made up of 19 prominent Charismatic church leaders, have joined calls for the immediate ban on illegal mining commonly known as galamsey.
The group has also called on the government to impose a temporary ban on small-scale mining as a first step while a more sustainable and permanent solution is developed.
This urgent plea comes in the wake of the widespread environmental degradation and destruction of livelihoods.
According to them, Ghana cannot afford to let greed eclipse the well-being of its citizens, adding the beauty and prosperity of the nation are rooted in the land that God has blessed us with.
In a statement, the renowned men of God said they have noted with deep concern the alarming escalation of galamsey, which has ravaged the nation.
“This illegal activity not only threatens our environment but also undermines the livelihoods and health of countless Ghanaians, especially those in rural areas who rely on the land and water for survival,” parts of the statement signed by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams on behalf of the fathers read.
They pointed out the far-reaching consequences of illegal mining, including the contamination of water bodies, deforestation, and the destruction of fertile farmland.
“This has not only made drinking water unsafe but has also rendered fertile lands unusable for farming. The consequences are far-reaching and, if left unchecked, will lead to environmental disaster, food insecurity, and health crises across our beloved nation,” it added.
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Also, they have called on all politicians, traditional leaders, and foreign nationals involved in galamsey to immediately stop these harmful activities.
“We urge you to embrace the long-term interests of the nation and future generations, rather than pursuing short-term personal gains.
“At the same time, we strongly condemn those in positions of influence who have turned a blind eye to this grave issue, driven by selfish interests and personal gain. We urge such individuals to reflect on their actions and consider the long-term consequences their inaction will have on the environment and the people they are meant to serve,” the statement advised.
Meanwhile, they have called for a collective responsibility to protect the nation’s lands.
“We must show love for our country and our fellow citizens by safeguarding the land that sustains us. If we truly love Ghana, we will not destroy it for selfish gain.
“Illegal mining is destroying what God has entrusted to us, and this violation must stop if we are to preserve the blessings of this nation for future generations,” the statement added.
The clergymen include Archbishop Charles Agyinasare – Perez Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills – United Denominations (Lighthouse Group of Churches), Apostle-General Sam Korankye-Ankrah – Royalhouse Chapel, Bishop N.A. Tackie-Yarboi – Victory Bible Church International, Rev. Eastwood Anaba – Fountain Gate Chapel (Eastwood Anaba Ministries), Rev Bob Asare, Faith Alive Chapel International, Bishop Dr Gideon Titi-Ofei, Pleasant Place Church and Rev. Dr. Robert Ampiah-Kwofie – Global Revival Ministries.
The rest are Rev. Steve Mensah – Charismatic Evangelistic Ministry, Bishop Gordon Kisseih – Life International Church, Bishop Victor Osei – Life International Church, Bishop Dr. Oppong Adu-Gyamfi – International Charismatic Church, Bishop Dr. Samuel N. Mensah – Full Gospel Church International, Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Markwei – Living Streams International, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh – Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev. Dr. Isaac Quaye – Word of Life Miracle Centre, Rt. Rev. Dr. Anyani Boadum – Jesus Generation Ministries, Rev. Dr. Seth Ablorh – Manna Mission Church.
