Ghana risks complicity in Sahel terrorism if galamsey persists – Zanetor warns

Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has cautioned Ghana that its failure to effectively combat illegal mining could lead to accusations of complicity in violent extremism and terrorism in the Sahel region. She stated that earnings from such mining activities are allegedly funding terrorism and extremism in the Sahel.

Dr Agyeman-Rawlings emphasized that Ghana must take action to avoid association with such activities. She warned, "Let it not be said that Ghana has become complicit in violent extremism and terrorism by not handling the canker of illegal mining." The Minister spoke at a national conference in Kumasi, where she also highlighted the issue of pollution from mining activities affecting shared river systems and damaging Ghana's relationships with neighboring countries like Côte d'Ivoire.

She emphasized that illegal mining is not just an environmental issue but also poses threats to regional relations and national security. Dr Agyeman-Rawlings underscored that Ghana cannot afford to neglect its peace and stability, stating that the country should not take its safety for granted. She added, "Let's not tempt fate, let's act now."

The Minister warned about the negative impact of illegal mining on food security and public health, warning against sacrificing agriculture, water security, and other vital sectors for the sake of gold. She stressed the importance of local government in the fight against illegal mining, saying, "Local government is the pillar holding our republic up; when it disintegrates, that will be the end of our democracy."