Pathologist raises alarm over deformities caused by galamsey

Professor Dr. Paul Osei Sampene, a pathologist and researcher, has raised concern over the recent increase in reported cases of birth deformities in the country, stating that the metals and pollutants used by illegal miners are absorbed by babies, leading to harm.

In an interview with Channel One TV, he also attributed the spike in kidney and liver-related issues among individuals to the pollutants used by illegal miners in their activities.

“Some of them are so clear for us to see especially the deformities of the lower limbs, upper limbs, the facial, the sexes and so forth but there are other ones that cannot be readily seen outside the body. These are the cognitive impairments that sometimes come with it and then the internal organs can be kidney, liver and in some cases the intestines.

“Studies have shown that when these heavy metals are absorbed especially in babies, about 90% to 95% are absorbed and not excreted. They remain there causing all manner of deformities, injuries and leaving pathologies into their bodies because they will be releasing them as and when it needs to be released,” he said.

Debates, concerns, and reports regarding the damaging effects and dangers associated with illegal mining have come to the forefront recently, following increased activities of illegal miners and the destruction of water bodies in some parts of the country.

From the environmental sector to health, the activities of galamsey, as it is locally known, affect everyone, including those who are not directly exposed to the pollution.

Civil Society Organisations (CSO’s), Trades Union Congress, health sector unions and associations, chiefs, and some citizens have called on the government to urgently impose a ban on illegal mining and declare a state of emergency in all affected areas.

The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has also given the government a one-month ultimatum to put an end to illegal mining else he would unite with other chiefs across the country to take back their lands.

Many have also called for a "shoot to kill" policy as a drastic measure to combat illegal mining.

Meanwhile, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has directed the establishment of a ministerial ad-hoc committee to address issues related to illegal mining.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Information on Friday, September 13, 2024, and signed by Fatimatu Abubakar, the Minister of Information, the committee will engage with stakeholders to evaluate the government’s efforts in combating the galamsey menace.

MAG/BB