A recent statement by Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, has stirred national outrage. He asserted that Ghana “can never eliminate” illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and blamed Ghanaians for hiring Chinese nationals to aid the activity.
In response, Awula Serwah, coordinator of the environmental advocacy group Eco-Conscious Citizens, called on the Ghanaian government to remain steadfast in enforcing laws against illegal mining.
She emphasized that environmental destruction is a national crisis that must not be politicized or deflected with blame. “The state must intensify efforts to protect Ghana’s lands and water bodies,” she said.
The debate over illegal mining continues to raise tensions between environmentalists and foreign diplomats as Ghana grapples with balancing development and environmental protection.
