{
  "id": 136642,
  "title": "Clergy not silent on galamsey – Methodist Minister rejects claims",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/04/clergy-not-silent-on-galamsey-methodist-minister-rejects-claims",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-04T15:55:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/clergy-not-silent-on-galamsey-methodist-minister-rejects-claims/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Very Rev. Hayford Osei Boateng, the Superintendent Minister of the Ayeduase Circuit of the Methodist Church Ghana, has denied allegations that church leaders in Ghana have remained silent on the issue of illegal mining, or galamsey. In remarks during the Nazareth Society's 10th anniversary celebration, he stressed that the church has been a staunch advocate against the problem. He highlighted that the notion that churches have been quiet on the matter under the current government is incorrect and unjust. Rev. Boateng emphasized that religious institutions have consistently used their platforms to warn congregants about the harmful effects of galamsey on the environment, public health, and national development. He affirmed that his church, like others, has not shied away from its responsibility to educate its people on the dangers of illegal mining. Despite some galamseyers being members of the church, he believes this reality has led to intensified preaching campaigns to make these individuals aware of the long-term consequences of their actions. The minister acknowledged that the lack of law enforcement and impunity are the primary obstacles in combating illegal mining. He called for greater collaboration between government, traditional authorities, security agencies, and religious bodies to ensure the enforcement of existing mining laws without fear or favor. Rev. Boateng warned that without decisive action on illegal mining, Ghana may be forced to import water and food within the next 10 to 20 years. He urged the faithful to be stewards of creation and stressed the need for political will and community support to make a significant impact on the issue.",
  "summary": "The Superintendent Minister of the Ayeduase Circuit of the Methodist Church Ghana, Very Rev. Hayford Osei Boateng, has refuted claims that the clergy in Ghana have been silent on the issue of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. He insisted that church leaders have been at the forefront of advocacy and public education against the […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}