Government Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Galamsey – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reiterated his administration’s determination to address illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, due to its severe consequences for water resources, agricultural lands, and the overall environment.

Speaking at the inaugural graduation ceremony of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya, Eastern Region, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of integrating responsible mining practices, fostering community partnerships, and utilizing advanced technologies such as drone surveillance to enhance the fight against galamsey.

He highlighted the necessity of training professionals to support these initiatives and stressed the critical need for sustainable practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change, aiming to achieve a balance between environmental preservation and development.

“We live in a world that requires immediate action. The effects of climate change are not a future concern; they are present realities. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, dwindling water resources, deforestation, and biodiversity loss all underscore the urgency of rethinking our interactions with the environment.

“The establishment of UESD is a proactive response to these challenges. This university is strategically positioned to cultivate experts, researchers, and innovators who can tackle issues of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

“From renewable energy to sustainable agriculture and waste management to climate policy, UESD graduates are prepared to lead Ghana toward becoming a global beacon of sustainable development.”