The Apostolic Fathers of Ghana, a collective of pioneering leaders of the Charismatic movement, have issued an urgent call for a temporary ban on all small-scale gold mining activities, commonly known as “Galamsey,” to combat the escalating environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.
In a passionate press release, signed by His Eminence Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the group voiced deep concern over the devastation wrought on the nation’s water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.
They urged politicians, traditional leaders, and foreign nationals to prioritize the nation’s long-term well-being over short-term profits.
“Extensive research has revealed that Galamsey has resulted in the pollution of rivers and streams, deforestation, and the destruction of farmlands. This has not only made drinking water unsafe but has also rendered fertile lands unusable for farming.
“The consequences are far-reaching and, if left unchecked, will lead to environmental disaster, food insecurity, and health crises across our beloved nation”.
His Eminence Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Founder and Leader, Action Chapel International (Prayer Cathedral)
Environmental and Social Crisis
The statement underscored the grave consequences of Galamsey, detailing how extensive pollution of rivers and streams, widespread deforestation, and the obliteration of farmlands have left entire communities struggling to survive.
The Apostolic Fathers asserted that, if left unchecked, illegal mining would plunge the country into a prolonged crisis, with devastating effects on both the environment and public health.
“We must act now to prevent the total collapse of our ecosystems,” the group warned.
Condemnation of Complicity
In a strong rebuke, the Apostolic Fathers condemned those in positions of power who have turned a blind eye to this pressing issue.
They expressed particular frustration at influential figures who, driven by self-interest, have allowed the illegal activities to continue.
“Ghana cannot afford to let greed eclipse the well-being of its citizens,” they stated, urging politicians and traditional leaders to reflect on the long-term consequences of their actions, or lack thereof.
“Our love for Ghana compels us to act. The beauty and prosperity of our nation are rooted in the land that God has blessed us with, and it is our collective responsibility to protect it. We must show love for our country and our fellow citizens by safeguarding the land that sustains us.
“If we truly love Ghana, we will not destroy it for selfish gain. Illegal mining is destroying what God has entrusted to us, and this violation must stop if we are to preserve the blessings of this nation for future generations”.
His Eminence Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Founder and Leader, Action Chapel International (Prayer Cathedral)
The release quoted scripture to emphasized the spiritual and moral obligation to protect the land: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it(Psalm 24:1)”.
This, they argued, underscores the sacred duty of all Ghanaians to safeguard the land from exploitation and destruction.
Call for Immediate Government Action
Citing the urgency of the situation, the Apostolic Fathers called for an immediate, temporary ban on all forms of small-scale mining across the country.
This moratorium, they insisted, would allow time for the government and other stakeholders to devise a permanent solution to the Galamsey menace.
“We must prioritize sustainable mining practices that respect both the environment and the people of Ghana,” the group stressed.
A Collective Moral Responsibility
The Apostolic Fathers also reached out to religious and moral leaders across the nation, urging them to raise their voices against the environmental catastrophe unfolding in the country.
“Let your voices be heard,” they implored, quoting Proverbs 31:8: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.”
The group emphasized that the fight to protect Ghana’s natural resources is not just a political battle but a moral and spiritual one.
Appeal to Regulatory Authorities and Civil Society
The press release also called on key institutions like the Water Resources Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce stricter regulations to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
The Apostolic Fathers emphasized the need for these bodies to uphold the provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), which is designed to ensure sustainable resource management.
They called for stronger oversight and accountability to curb the illegal mining activities that continue to wreak havoc.
Civil society organizations (CSOs), environmental groups, and other advocates were similarly urged to amplify their efforts in educating and mobilizing communities to resist the destructive activities of Galamsey.
The Apostolic Fathers praised these organizations for their tireless work but stressed that greater urgency and collaboration were needed to protect Ghana’s land and water resources.
Commendation for the Media’s Role
In a special commendation, the Apostolic Fathers lauded the efforts of journalists and media organizations who have risked their lives to expose the realities of Galamsey.
“These brave men and women have been our eyes and ears, shedding light on a crisis that some in power have chosen to ignore”, they said.
The Apostolic Fathers affirmed that the courageous reporting by the media has played a critical role in keeping the public informed and holding government officials accountable for environmental destruction.
In their concluding remarks, the Apostolic Fathers urged all Ghanaians to unite in the fight against illegal mining.
“Let us come together as one nation to end this destructive practice and restore our land,” they implored, urging immediate and decisive action from the government to halt Galamsey and implement sustainable solutions.
The statement, signed by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and Leader of Action Chapel International, and other prominent leaders of Ghana’s Charismatic movement, is a rallying cry for national repentance and action.
These prominent cleargymens include Archbishop Charles Agyinasare of Perez Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills of United Denominations (Lighthouse Group of Churches), and Apostle-General Sam Korankye-Ankrah of Royal House Chapel.
Others include Bishop N.A. Tackie-Yarboi of Victory Bible Church International, Rev. Eastwood Anaba of Fountain Gate Chapel (Eastwood Anaba Ministries), Rev. Dr Robert Ampiah-Kwofie of Global Revival Ministries and other leading Apostolic Fathers of Ghana.
Quoting the biblical warning from Micah 2:1: “Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds!”, they called on all those complicit in the destruction to reflect on their actions and change course before it is too late.
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