Chairman of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Bernard Owusu, has raised serious concerns about the ongoing destruction of Ghana’s river bodies due to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. In a recent address, Mr. Owusu highlighted the alarming state of River Ayensu, which he says has been completely blocked as a result of illegal mining activities.
According to the TUC Chairman, the environmental degradation caused by galamsey is posing a severe threat to public health and the country’s natural resources. “Our rivers are being polluted and destroyed. This is not just an environmental issue it’s a national crisis,” he stated.
Mr. Owusu expressed disappointment over the government’s enforcement efforts, noting that despite some interventions, authorities have not done enough to stop the menace. “The current measures are inadequate. We cannot continue like this while our water bodies vanish,” he lamented.
In a call to action, he urged all Ghanaians to unite in combating illegal mining and protecting the environment. He also revealed that the TUC is considering supporting the government with additional measures to help curb the illegal activity.
“The fight against galamsey cannot be left to the government alone. It requires the collective will and effort of every citizen,” Mr. Owusu emphasized.
His remarks come amid growing national concern over the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s ecosystems, particularly its rivers and forests.
