Archbishop Agyinasare Calls for Action Against Illegal Mining in Ghana

Introduction 

In a powerful sermon delivered on September 8, 2024, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, founder of Perez Chapel International, addressed the pressing issue of illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” in Ghana. 

The Archbishop’s message, titled “Restoring Our Land: A Call Against Galamsey,” highlighted the devastating environmental and social impacts of this practice while urging Christians and citizens to take action.

The Devastating Impact of Galamsey

Archbishop Agyinasare began by outlining the severe consequences of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and public health. He showed images of polluted rivers, stating, “This is what galamsey does to our lands.” 

The Archbishop emphasized how formerly pristine water bodies like the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers have been contaminated, posing significant risks to communities that rely on these sources for drinking water.

The sermon also highlighted the alarming health impacts on both miners and surrounding communities. “They are beginning to have neurological challenges. 

They are having respiratory problems, breathing problems. They are beginning to have kidney damage,” Agyinasare warned, citing a 2021 United Nations Environmental Protection Agency report.

A Call to Stewardship

Drawing from scripture, the Archbishop reminded his congregation of their divine mandate as stewards of God’s creation. 

He quoted Genesis 1:28: “God blessed them and said unto them, be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it.” 

Agyinasare emphasized, “God gave us a responsibility to fill the earth, replenish it, and subdue it. So basically what God did was that he made us caretakers of the earth.”

Addressing Root Causes

The sermon delved into the underlying factors driving galamsey, including poverty, unemployment, and the desire for quick wealth. 

Agyinasare also pointed to weak regulatory frameworks and the alleged involvement of some chiefs and politicians in perpetuating illegal mining activities.

Practical Steps for Change

Archbishop Agyinasare outlined several practical actions for combating galamsey:

1. Raising awareness about the dangers of illegal mining

2. Promoting responsible consumption through reducing, reusing, and recycling

3. Supporting sustainable practices and businesses

4. Engaging in community cleanups

5. Advocating for justice and environmental protection policies

6. Praying for creation and the nation

The Archbishop emphasized the importance of both prayer and action, stating, “As we pray, we must take action.”

Conclusion

Archbishop Charles Agyinasare’s sermon serves as a powerful call to action for Ghanaians to address the critical issue of galamsey. 

By framing environmental stewardship as a Christian duty and providing practical steps for engagement, the Archbishop challenges his congregation and the wider public to take responsibility for protecting Ghana’s natural resources. 

As he concluded, “Together, you and I can restore our land and ensure a better tomorrow for generations to come.”