At COP29, President Nana Akufo-Addo made a stirring appeal, questioning, “As a father and a grandfather, I question; what world do we leave behind?” His remarks, intended to resonate with world leaders on the need for climate action, have struck a different chord back home in Ghana, sparking widespread criticism for what many see as a glaring irony. While calling for urgent action to protect future generations, Akufo-Addo’s administration has faced continuous accusations of failing to address the galamsey (illegal mining) menace, which has devastated Ghana’s environment, polluting rivers, degrading forests, and eroding farmland.
The president’s statements have fueled a national outcry, as citizens express frustration over the government’s ineffective response to the galamsey crisis. Environmental advocates and everyday Ghanaians have not only decried the destruction caused by illegal mining but have also criticized the president for allegedly allowing members of his own party to benefit from these illicit activities. Despite multiple pledges to clamp down on galamsey, critics argue that the administration’s actions have fallen short, with reports of illegal operations continuing across the country under the watch of authorities.
The irony of Akufo-Addo’s COP29 speech has drawn attention to the perceived gap between Ghana’s environmental commitments on the global stage and the reality on the ground. For many Ghanaians, the president’s words ring hollow against the backdrop of polluted rivers like the Pra and Ankobra, once vibrant sources of water and life that are now suffering from severe contamination. In a country where communities depend on clean water, fertile land, and lush forests for their livelihood, the unchecked spread of galamsey has fueled a crisis that jeopardizes not only the environment but also the health and economic well-being of future generations.
As international leaders respond to Akufo-Addo’s impassioned plea, Ghanaians continue to demand accountability and decisive action to tackle illegal mining at home. Many argue that true leadership on climate change begins with safeguarding one’s own lands and waters—starting with strong, uncompromising measures to stop the degradation happening in Ghana today.
TheDotNews.