Galamsey threatens Ghana’s diplomatic relations with neighbours – Zanetor

Illegal mining activities in Ghana are putting a strain on diplomatic relations with its neighboring West African countries, according to Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology. The continuous pollution of shared river systems by illegal mining has raised serious concerns for Ghana's immediate neighbors.

Agyeman-Rawlings warned that the contamination of transboundary rivers like the Tano and Bia could lead to toxic waters flowing across Ghana's borders into Côte d’Ivoire. This issue is no longer just an environmental crisis; it poses a significant threat to regional diplomacy and national security.

At a national conference in Kumasi, the minister emphasized that immediate, coordinated action from the government, traditional leaders, security agencies, and local communities is needed to tackle the illegal mining problem. She pointed out that illegal mining is fueling broader security crises, with illicit proceeds allegedly being used to finance violent extremism and terrorism in parts of the Sahel region. Ghana cannot afford to remain silent on these activities that jeopardize security across the sub-region.

In addition to the diplomatic risks, illegal mining is destroying forests and polluting water bodies, severely impacting Ghana's food security and exposing future generations to serious health hazards. The minister stressed that the country should not prioritize gold production over agriculture, water security, and other essential economic sectors.

Agyeman-Rawlings cautioned that impending weather anomalies, worsened by climate change, could further exacerbate Ghana's environmental challenges, especially as rainfall patterns become more erratic and temperatures rise.