The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has dismissed claims that it is organizing a nationwide environmental prayer protest walk against galamsey, the illegal mining practice that continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s environment.
Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, Archbishop of Kumasi, the GCBC clarified that the prayer walk in question is being organized solely by the Accra Archdiocese, not the national body.
The clarification comes in response to reports suggesting that political actors were attempting to politicize the event.
The GCBC has been consistently vocal in its opposition to galamsey, citing its destructive impact on the environment, public health, and livelihoods.
The conference has called on the government to take decisive and immediate action to combat illegal mining, urging authorities to strictly enforce existing laws and hold offenders accountable.
While condemning galamsey, the bishops reiterated the need for a united front in tackling the issue.
They called on all stakeholders—government, legislature, judiciary, media, civil society, traditional leaders, and religious organizations—to collaborate in finding lasting solutions to the environmental crisis.
Archbishop Anokye emphasized that the fight against galamsey should transcend politics, stressing that it is a national issue that requires collective responsibility.
He urged all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue to ensure sustainable solutions to the problem.
The GCBC also advocated for responsible mining practices, acknowledging the economic significance of mining in Ghana while underscoring the need to safeguard the environment for future generations.
The bishops remain firm in their position that the environmental and social damage caused by illegal mining cannot be overlooked, and they continue to press for immediate action to protect the country’s natural resources.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
