Use reclaimed mining lands for non-edible cash crops - Dr Agyemang

The Founder of HEPA Plus Herbal Mixture, Dr Ebenezer Agyemang, has called on the government to utilise reclaimed illegal mining lands for the cultivation of commercial non-edible cash crops to protect consumers from heavy metals.

The renowned herbal practitioner argued that these plants will help in the treatment of the land while providing jobs and revenue at the same time.

He noted that it would be dangerous for the country to allow the cultivation of edible crops on recently reclaimed mining sites.

"Research by scientists at The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, KNUST and the Crop Research Institute has proven the presence of heavy metals in foods grown at these illegal mining sites," he said.

"These heavy metals, which have been detected in maize, cowpea and other edible crops may find their way in meals which will be dangerous for consumption," Dr Agyemang added.

"My suggestion is that Ghana must reclaim all these mining sites but rather use them for the plantation of thick trees, rubber and other non-edible cash crops."

Speaking to OTEC news on Monday, Dr Ebenezer Agyemang noted that these cash crops will not only treat the land but will create jobs for the youth.

He appealed to the government to team up with academia in this discussion and find a lasting solution to the problem.