Christian Council of Ghana questions government’s conflicting stance on galamsey

The Christian Council of Ghana has expressed concerns about the government's inconsistent approach to combating illegal mining practices. Vice Chairman Rt. Rev. Dr Abraham Kwakye raised questions about the direction of the government's policy, particularly following claims that individuals without licenses could mine in areas outside forest reserves and water bodies. His comments came during the Council's 97th anniversary celebration.

Rev. Dr Kwakye expressed confusion about the term 'illegal mining' and questioned the government's permissive attitude towards the practice. He recounted an incident where some church members, who had discovered gold on church land, requested the church's relocation to facilitate mining. The request received support from chiefs and local leaders, prompting the congregation to seek guidance from the church's leader. Rev. Dr Kwakye clarified that his church would only consider relocation if directed by the government.

He appealed to the Deputy Minister for Local Government to convey the Council's concerns to the government, emphasizing the need for consistency in enforcement. Rev. Dr Kwakye urged the government to uphold its message while acknowledging the concerns raised by public officials. He highlighted the importance of partnerships between religious institutions and the state built on mutual respect, transparency, and accountability.

Beyond illegal mining, the Council's anniversary address emphasized the need for a principled relationship between religious organizations and the state to support national development. Rev. Dr Kwakye stressed the necessity of maintaining independence while cooperating with government without compromising the Church's values. The Council's Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2030 focuses on ethical leadership, socioeconomic justice, environmental sustainability, human rights, peacebuilding, and institutional strengthening.

Rev. Dr Kwakye urged churches to contribute through mentoring, vocational preparation, entrepreneurship support, and financial literacy, while calling for government to create an enabling environment for enterprise and productive employment. He also highlighted the importance of environmental protection, calling for sustained cooperation between churches, communities, local authorities, traditional leaders, schools, and community groups.