Ghana’s Natural Resources Must Be Left Sacred and Untouched – Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, has issued a passionate call for a national dialogue on the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources, warning against the unsustainable exploitation currently threatening the country’s ecological future.

In a comment shared on her X (formerly Twitter) platform, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings questioned the relentless extraction of Ghana’s finite natural resources, stressing the irreversible damage being caused to the environment.

She emphasized that it is time for Ghana to have a serious conversation about what natural assets should be considered sacred and preserved for future generations.

“Is it every single, finite, natural resource that must be exploited?” she asked. “Is the irreparable damage to the environment worth the short-term benefit that is often enjoyed by a few?”

Ghana has in recent years grappled with a range of environmental challenges stemming from negative exploitation of its natural wealth—rampant illegal mining (galamsey), deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

These activities have not only degraded critical ecosystems but have also jeopardized livelihoods and public health.

Dr. Zanetor underscored the urgent need for a national consensus on sustainable development practices.

She argued that while economic growth is important, it must not come at the cost of destroying the natural heritage that sustains communities and supports life.

“As a nation, should we not have a conversation about what we should leave sacred and untouched?” she added. “Our natural resources are not just economic assets; they are legacies for our children and the foundation of our ecological survival.”

She called on policymakers, traditional leaders, environmental experts, and citizens to unite in defense of Ghana’s forests, rivers, minerals, and wildlife, emphasizing the need for stronger environmental regulations and a shift in national priorities toward long-term sustainability.