Kwahuman Global Network worried about rising environmental degradation

The Kwahuman Global Network (KGN) has expressed concern over the rising environmental degradation in Kwahu, attributed to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Obrempong Ansong Dwamena, convenor of the Kwahuman Global Network, Europe and North America branch, in a statement signed and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Koforidua, said the reckless and destructive practice has inflicted significant harm on our natural environment, endangering the livelihoods of farmers, the future of our children, and the very survival of our traditional area..

He said our rivers were polluted, fertile farmlands destroyed, and entire communities poisoned with toxic heavy metals.

The particular concern is the exposure of vulnerable children, who absorb these hazardous substances at far greater rates than adults, placing them at serious risk of chronic and irreversible health complications.

He said " the ongoing contamination of our soil, food, and water constitutes not only an environmental catastrophe but also an urgent public health emergency. We are confronting an existential peril. "

Obrempong Dwamena said " Kwahu citizens in the diaspora are deeply disturbed by the apparent indifference and complacency of certain traditional authorities who, despite their custodial duty over our ancestral lands, remain passive as these destructive practices continue unchecked. "

The leadership of KGN therefore called on all stakeholders, traditional leaders, government officials, civil society, and community representatives, to unite and take immediate, decisive action to confront these atrocities against our land and our people.

We demand accountability from all chiefs and local leaders who enable, tolerate, or turn a blind eye to galamsey operations.

He said the proud heritage and reputation of Kwahu must not be compromised by the greed and self-interest of a few who prioritize personal gain over the collective welfare of our citizens.

The Kwahuman Global Network urged the Municipal and District Chief Executives (MCEs/DCEs) of Kwahu to demonstrate firm leadership by enforcing environmental laws and halting these illegal activities without fear or favour.

He stressed that " the time for inaction and pretense is over. Our farms, forests, and rivers, the very foundations of our people’s sustenance, are being destroyed by individuals, often non-natives of Kwahu, aided by local collaborators.

This is a national disgrace that must be condemned by all conscientious citizens.

" Let us stand together to defend our land, our people, and our future. Kwahu must not be allowed to decline under our watch," he said.