14 regions in Ghana severely impacted by galamsey – Expert

An Environmental Scientist at the Institute of Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS), University of Ghana, Dr Ekua Odoom, has described illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, as a major contributor to some of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Speaking on the country’s environmental situation, Dr Odoom said Ghana is currently grappling with key issues including plastic pollution, climate change, illegal mining, biodiversity loss, and land degradation.

Galamsey in Ghana: How it began, what it has become, and why education must lead the way

According to her, galamsey activities significantly affected biodiversity loss and land degradation through the destruction of forests, farmlands, and natural habitats.

“Currently I think about 14 out of 16 regions have been heavily impacted by activities and then the impact of these galamsey activities can be seen through the pollution of our water bodies," she noted.

Dr Odoom further warned of serious public health implications linked to galamsey, including an increase in respiratory and neurological diseases due to exposure to toxic chemicals and heavy metals used in mining operations.

Galamsey: Is illegal mining an undeclared war on Ghana's future?

"The impact of these galamsey activities can be seen through the pollution of our water bodies. Health-wise, you talk about prevalence or increase in respiratory and some neurological diseases," she remarked.

Dr Odoom also called for stronger enforcement of mining laws, and sustained public education to curb illegal mining.

Galamsey continues to pose a serious threat to the country's environment, public health, and sustainable development.

Watch the video below:

‘Currently, 14 out of Ghana’s 16 regions are heavily impacted by galamsey activities.’

— Dr. Ekua Odoom, Environmental Scientist at the Institute of Environment and Sanitation Studies, UG, highlights political interference as a key driver of illegal mining.#JohnMahama pic.twitter.com/6lnZHEc0uT

— ChannelOne TV (@Channel1TVGHA) January 13, 2026