Convener of Occupy Ghana, Ace Anan Ankomah has revealed that President Akufo-Addo has consistently ignored the organization’s appeals regarding the illegal mining crisis, including a recent letter dated September 10, 2024.
Since 2016, Occupy Ghana has repeatedly warned about the environmental and water pollution caused by galamsey, but their concerns have been overlooked.
Mr. Ankomah expressed disappointment, noting that the crisis could have been controlled if the government had taken their advice earlier.
He emphasized the urgency of government action to address the menace. He warned that the unchecked spread of illegal mining could lead to severe environmental, food, and public health disasters.
Calling for decisive measures, he proposed confiscation of lands used for galamsey to prevent further damage. He urged immediate intervention, cautioning that the consequences could be catastrophic for future generations.
He also detailed the organization’s efforts in 2022, during which they sent multiple letters to the president without receiving any response. Their warnings about environmental and health risks went unanswered, even after raising alarm about deformities in children due to pollution. Their latest letter in September 2024 reiterated the call for urgent action, which remains unaddressed.