By Lucy Mawufemor Kpeglo
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has once again raised concerns about the devastating impact of illegal mining, popularly known as Galamsey, on Ghana’s environment, especially the country’s water bodies.
Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards in Kumasi, the Asantehene used the platform to urge political leaders to take stronger action to end the menace, stressing that the responsibility lies heavily on those in power to protect the nation’s natural resources.
Otumfuo used the platform to highlight the urgent need to safeguard Ghana’s water bodies, which continue to suffer from the harmful effects of illegal mining. He questioned why current mining practices have become so destructive compared to those of the past.
“My forefathers mined gold but it wasn’t Galamsey. Our water bodies was not destroyed so how come now?” he said.
The Asantehene’s speech reminds leaders that the fight against Galamsey should not be treated as a political issue but as a national responsibility.
He emphasized that if immediate steps are not taken, the country risks losing its clean water sources and fertile lands for future generations.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II congratulated all journalists who won awards at the ceremony. He praised the media for their role in promoting accountability and reminded them to continue using their platforms to advocate for environmental protection and good governance.
He made special mention of Doreen Amado of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), who won several awards including the Overall Best Female Journalist of the Year, and Godwin Asediba, who was named the Journalist of the Year.
The Asantehene honored both journalists with a cash prize of GHC 25,000 each to celebrate their hard work and dedication to the profession.
