Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the GJA, has called for urgent action against illegal mining, urging the government to enforce mining laws strictly. He condemned the destructive impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment and reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to support the government in addressing this issue. Emphasizing March as Heritage Month, he reminded media practitioners of their role in promoting the country’s cultural identity.
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has firmly reiterated the association’s stance against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. During a news conference at the Ghana International Press Centre on March 13, 2025, he called for the government to take decisive action to combat this urgent issue with strict enforcement of mining laws, while also encouraging journalists to contribute to the preservation of Ghana’s heritage.
Dwumfour expressed his concerns regarding the pervasive effects of galamsey. He stated that the relentless pursuit of gold mining is leading to the destruction and degradation of forest reserves, water bodies, and farmlands. He emphasized that these mining activities have resulted in a breakdown of law and order in mining communities, accompanied by human rights abuses and the dispossession of land.
While commending the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for its efforts to combat illegal mining, Dwumfour urged the Ministry to maintain its vigilance. He acknowledged the Ministry’s initiative concerning the safety of journalists and called it crucial for ongoing efforts aimed at curbing illegal mining and highlighted the GJA’s commitment to monitor these actions closely.
Dwumfour welcomed the commitment made by President John Dramani Mahama in the fight against galamsey. He expressed enthusiasm for the GJA’s readiness to support governmental actions to eradicate this hazardous practice. He urged President Mahama to remain steadfast in his promise to end illegal mining, declaring that, “the time to act is NOW!”
In addition to discussing illegal mining, the GJA President pointed out that March is Ghana’s National Heritage Month. He implored media practitioners to leverage their platforms to promote and safeguard Ghana’s cultural identity. Dwumfour asserted the media’s vital role in shaping the nation’s identity and advocated for the use of media power to educate the public on the importance of protecting Ghana’s heritage.
In conclusion, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour’s statements underscore the urgent need for action against illegal mining in Ghana. He has called upon the government, particularly President Mahama, to remain committed to stopping galamsey while highlighting the media’s crucial role in promoting national heritage. This coordinated effort is essential to preserve both the environment and the cultural identity of the nation.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
