NDC has Blue Print for Youth in Responsible Mining to Protect Water Bodies – Naana Opoku-Agyemang

Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate in the 2024 election, has announced the party’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices that prevent water pollution caused by illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’

Speaking at an NDC event in Amenfi Central, Western North Region, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang criticized the current government for its failure to create sufficient employment opportunities for the youth, a situation she believes has driven many into illegal mining as a means of survival.

“In areas like Amenfi, galamsey is rampant, causing severe damage to the environment. But what choice do the youth have when there are no jobs? They’re forced into illegal mining,” she said. She further questioned the audience, “We all know galamsey is happening here in Amenfi. Where are the galamseyers?” The crowd responded affirmatively.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang pointed out that illegal mining is not a new issue, as Ghana has been a hub for gold mining for centuries. However, she emphasized that the current administration’s failure to provide alternative livelihoods has exacerbated the problem.

To address this, she announced the NDC’s plan to offer training in responsible mining techniques. “We’re here to bring good news,” she stated.

“If galamsey is the only option, then it must be done safely. We will teach the youth how to mine without destroying water bodies, ensuring the protection of both their health and the environment.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, Member of Parliament for Effiduase Asokore and Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, has defended the government’s decision not to ban galamsey, arguing that doing so would be politically harmful to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He accused foreign nationals of contributing to the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, suggesting that the NDC had allowed them into the country for political gain.

“The NDC saw we were winning seats in mining areas, so they imported foreigners to engage in illegal mining,” Dr. Afriyie claimed, adding that stopping galamsey would result in the NPP losing support in these regions.

As Ghana approaches the December polls, several civil society organizations have called on both major political parties to take a decisive stand against illegal mining to demonstrate their commitment to addressing the crisis.