By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
Development consultant and researcher, Dr. Elvis Banoemuleng Botah, has called for the declaration of a state of emergency to tackle the worsening impact of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking on GBC’s ‘Current Agenda’ Dr. Botah argued that the level of destruction caused by galamsey now qualifies as an existential threat to Ghana’s food security, public health, and national stability.
“Our constitution is clear on the grounds for declaring a state of emergency — when lives are threatened, when public safety is at risk, and when the integrity of the nation is endangered,” he said. “In my professional assessment, galamsey has already met those conditions” he added.
He explained that beyond environmental degradation, the crisis has contaminated food and water supplies with heavy metals like mercury and lead, leading to kidney problems in children and young adults. Farmlands are being destroyed, revenue from agricultural exports is declining due to food contamination, and families are spending heavily on medical bills.
“This is no longer just about illegal mining — it is about life, survival, and national security,” Dr. Botah cautioned. “There is no war greater than what we are going through now. Galamsey is harming the health of our people, the economy, and the very democracy we are seeking to protect.”
Dr. Botah emphasized that the fight requires urgent, coordinated action backed by strong political will. He added that professional bodies, academics, and civil society groups have already expressed support for emergency-level interventions.
He urged government to stop what he called the “political hypocrisy” surrounding galamsey and instead deploy the kinetic force and operational resources needed to dismantle the powerful syndicates behind illegal mining.
“The moment is now. If we delay any further, the crisis will not only destroy our forests and rivers but also the safety and stability of our nation. Declaring a state of emergency is no longer an option — it is the last resort Ghana must embrace,” he concluded.
