Legendary South African musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka, popularly known as the “Princess of Africa,” has called on Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to intensify his efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. Speaking during an interview on Citi FM’s Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, October 4, Chaka Chaka expressed her concern over the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment and its youth.
The renowned Umqombothi singer, who is in Ghana for the African Legends Night event, emphasized that the issue of illegal mining is not exclusive to Ghana. “It is a burden everywhere, even in South Africa,” she stated. Chaka Chaka urged the Ghanaian government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the country’s damaged forests and lands, which have been severely affected by illegal mining activities.
Reflecting on the global nature of the issue, Chaka Chaka revealed that she plans to take her advocacy to a broader platform. “We will have a Global Citizen meeting in Ivory Coast next week, and President Akufo-Addo will be there. I will convey the message to him because we cannot afford to see young people suffering,” she said.
Chaka Chaka stressed the need for President Akufo-Addo to follow through on his promises to tackle galamsey and deliver real solutions for the benefit of all Ghanaians. “Young people are saying the solutions are there, and all we need now is to see him walking the talk,” she added. The singer highlighted that sustainable management of the country’s mineral resources is crucial for ensuring that all citizens, especially future generations, can access basic necessities like clean drinking water.
“When we say people shall govern, the very same people are the ones that come with the solutions,” Chaka Chaka said, urging the president to listen to the voices of the Ghanaian people and take decisive action against the illegal mining scourge.
