Africa-Press – Ghana. Illegal small-scale mining, known locally as “galamsey,” has become a major environmental and social issue in Ghana.
Recent reports indicate that this unregulated mining activity is causing severe land degradation, biodiversity loss, water pollution, and soil acidification across the country.
In the fight against this menace, young people are being urged to get involved.
Speaking at this year’s Adwinsa Children’s Show at the Accra International Conference Centre, Executive Director of the Complementary Education Agency, Catherine Agyapomaa Appiah-Pinkra, emphasized the need to teach children about environmental protection.
According to her, children are the future leaders and must be equipped with the knowledge to combat galamsey. She said, “As we encourage reading among ourselves, particularly our children, we are providing them with valuable information that they will use to guide us as they grow.”
She further stressed the importance of reading, stating, “Reading is the bedrock of education. It enhances comprehension and concentration, especially in early childhood.”
CEO of Adwinsa Publications Limited, Kweku Oppong-Amponsah, acknowledged the efforts of all stakeholders in addressing the issue. He used the occasion to outdoor their latest publication, “Adamu the Child Miner,” noting that incorporating social issues into engaging stories can help raise awareness among children.
Touching on this year’s theme, “Poisoning Our Water, Poisoning Our Future,” Deputy Administrator of the Guidance and Counselling Unit at GES, Sarah Kumi Yeboah Boadu highlighted the effects of water pollution. She stated, “Water pollution causes cancer, birth defects, and neurological damage. It impacts our food supply, economy, and way of life. It’s not just about us; it’s about the future we are leaving for our children.”
She further suggested everyday actions to protect water sources: “Don’t litter, recycle and reuse, be cautious with chemicals, plant trees, join clean-up activities, especially around water bodies, and spread the word.”
The event saw hundreds of students, teachers, parents, and guardians from across the metropolis who were educated about illegal mining and the importance of fostering a love for reading in the fight against galamsey.
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