Erastus Asare Donkor: If Galamsey had been halted, my award would have had greater significance.

Erastus Asare Donkor, an investigative journalist for JoyNews, has said that if the government had adequately addressed the problem of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, the prestigious Order of the Volta (Membership) Award that President Akufo-Addo gave him would have had greater significance.

His noteworthy contribution to the nation's progress, especially in the media landscape, was acknowledged with the prize. Mr. Donkor is renowned for his courageous and reliable coverage of illicit mining.

He was one of several Ghanaians who received accolades on the day, along with the country's outgoing vice president, state ministries, and several notable private citizens.

At the 2024 National Honours and Awards in Accra on Monday, December 30, he accepted the prize and told reporters, "I think this award would have been more meaningful if the issues I raised, which have earned me several awards, had at least been addressed by this administration."

"I think that's the missing piece," he added. Our main rivers and streams are still severely contaminated, and it is painful that this administration has not given it enough attention.

"I think that is the missing link when it comes to the kind of joy I would have expressed with this award," he stated.

Additionally, Mr. Donkor conveyed his appreciation for the honor, saying it has inspired him to keep working to improve the nation for everyone.