Galamsey: Restoration of Ghana’s Polluted Water Bodies May Take 15 Years – Toxicologist

Dr. Bright Boafo Boamah, a medical doctor and toxicologist, believes that it could take between 10 to 15 years to completely restore Ghana’s water bodies affected by illegal mining, often referred to as galamsey.

During an appearance on JoyNews’ *Newsfile* program on October 12, 2024, Dr. Boamah emphasized that the significant environmental harm caused by galamsey demands considerable time and effort for recovery.

He noted that harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide used in these mining activities have severely contaminated numerous water sources, complicating the restoration process.

Dr. Boamah also highlighted the serious health risks associated with this contamination, warning that exposure to these toxic substances endangers both human health and wildlife.

“Currently, many antibiotics are ineffective, often due to improper usage, but heavy metals are also contributing to antimicrobial resistance,” he explained.

He cautioned that the issue is far from straightforward. “If we were to begin the restoration efforts now, it could take around 10 to 15 years, and some water bodies may never be restored,” Dr. Boamah stated.

He urged the government to strictly enforce environmental regulations and adopt sustainable practices to prevent further damage to Ghana’s natural resources.

Additionally, he called for a united effort, encouraging civil society, the government, and the public to seriously address the galamsey crisis.

He warned that inaction could lead to devastating consequences for future generations.