The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has called on the government to roll out stronger measures to curb illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which continues to wreak havoc on the nation’s environment, public health, and security.

Speaking at the 25th General Assembly of the PCG at Kwahu Nkwatia in the Eastern Region, Dr. Kwakye painted a grim picture of the consequences of illegal mining, noting that it has polluted water bodies, destroyed farmlands, and contributed to alarming health risks such as kidney diseases and birth defects caused by heavy metal contamination.

He further warned that the proliferation of arms among illegal miners poses a serious national security threat, while galamsey activities have also led to school dropouts in affected communities, undermining the future of young people.

“The recent plane crash that claimed the lives of eight government officials should remind us of the urgent need to adopt proper measures to address galamsey and its far-reaching consequences,” the Moderator said.

Beyond the environment, Dr. Kwakye expressed concern over tensions between the Judiciary and the Executive, stressing the importance of safeguarding the independence of the Judiciary.

He urged strict adherence to constitutional provisions governing the appointment and removal of the Chief Justice, warning that any breach could erode public trust in democratic governance.

The PCG Moderator reaffirmed the church’s commitment to speaking out on national issues, insisting that sustainable development and justice can only be achieved if the government acts decisively on both environmental degradation and institutional independence.