Research Staff Association at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Research Scientists Association at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), have attributed a high number of cancer related cases recorded in Ghana to illegal mining activities (galamsey).
According to a joint statement released by the two bodies, galamsey activities have led to the potentially toxic elements such as cadmium, arsenic, chromium and lead which are associated with cancer and non-cancerous diseases being released into the Ghanaian landscape.
“Proliferation of non-communicable diseases: Potentially toxic elements such as cadmium, arsenic, chromium and lead are associated with cancer and non-cancerous diseases. The activities of galamsey operations contribute to the environmental factors that lead to Ghana recording over 24,000 cancer cases annually.
For example, arsenic may be associated with Buruli ulcer. Further, communities near mining sites suffer from increased incidences of respiratory diseases, skin conditions, and other health issues due to exposure to hazardous chemicals,” portions of the statement read.
With immediate effect, the group has called on government to suspend all illegal mining activities in the country for a period of not less than one year.
“We call on the government to immediately suspend all illegal small-scale mining activities in the country for a period not less than one year during which the government invests in promoting sustainable, eco-friendly mining practices by providing technical and financial support to small-scale miners.
This will help formalize the sector and reduce the reliance on destructive mining methods thereafter. Just as the sea is closed for a month each year to allow for a bumper harvest when it reopens, this, in our considered view, would be tackling the galamsey menace with the urgency it requires. The current state of our water bodies demands vigorous action, as the consequences of illegal mining, if left unchecked, will be disastrous for the nation’s environmental and public health.”
The two groups who boast of scientists of repute and great competence expressed commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to formulate policies, reclaim and restore lands, forests, and water resources, and help restructure the entire value chain of small-scale mining in the
country.
They urged government and other stakeholders to collaborate through funding of research activities to find lasting solutions to the unsustainable mining practices.
