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Galamsey Is Not a Prayer Issue; Jobs and Policies Are Needed to Combat It – Dr. Boadi Nyamekye Advocates Practical Solutions to Tackle the Menace
Dr. Michael Boadi Nyamekye, Founder and Head Pastor of The Maker’s House Chapel International, recently addressed the pressing issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey, stating that it cannot be solved through prayer alone.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Bola Ray on STARR Chat on Star FM, Dr. Nyamekye emphasized that poverty and the chaos surrounding galamsey require practical solutions.
It will be recalled that in 2022, a video emerged that saw some of the country’s top and notable clergy at a galamsey site in the Eastern Region praying for the end of the activity in the area.
A good number of clergymen stormed the site in action to their disdain for the illegal activity that is causing Ghana much.
The tour by the clergy was to observe and have first-hand information on the level of devastation as a result of mining activities.Among the clergy who visited the sites were the immediate past Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, Bishop Dr. Paul Boafo, Presiding Chairman of the Assemblies of God, Rev Dr. Paul Frimpong Manso and Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Ghana Apostle Eric Nyamekye.
The Chairman for the Church of Pentecost, Ghana, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, who spoke to the media called for a political will and multi-faceted solutions to end mining activities that are devastating arable lands, farms and river bodies.
However, according to Dr. Boadi Nyamekye, providing hope and viable alternatives for those engaged in illegal mining is crucial.
“If we want to stop galamsey, there should be alternative solutions,” he asserted, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat this issue effectively.
“It’s about giving hope to those who are involved in the menace by providing them with jobs and a sense of responsibility; otherwise, they will still do it,” he stressed.
The renowned preacher further outlined several alternatives that can help combat this menace, including creating jobs for citizens, reducing the cost of capital, and establishing policies to regulate community mining.
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He also underscored the importance of holding leaders accountable for their roles in addressing the galamsey crisis.
Dr. Nyamekye’s comments resonate with many who believe that tackling the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining requires a comprehensive strategy. By focusing on tangible solutions, he hopes to inspire positive change in communities affected by galamsey, moving beyond prayer to action.
Galamsey, or illegal small-scale mining, has become a significant challenge in Ghana, posing serious threats to the environment, public health, and local communities. The practice often leads to deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation, impacting agriculture and biodiversity. As the government and various stakeholders continue to grapple with this issue, finding sustainable solutions is crucial to preserving Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.