If we don’t act against galamsey now, we will all die- UTAG-UG
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana chapter, has raised urgent concerns over the severe impact of illegal mining (galamsey) on the country’s water sources and public health.
Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison, General Secretary of UTAG-UG, issued the warning during an interview on Channel One Newsroom on Monday, September 15, stressing the need for immediate action to prevent a health crisis.
“If we don’t do what we are supposed to do now, we will all die,” he stated bluntly. “The water situation is causing havoc in people’s homes. Many areas, including Kwanyako, don’t have access to clean water. People can’t even afford to buy water for their households,” he said.
As a scientist, Dr. Harrison warned that continued consumption of contaminated water could lead to long-term health problems such as cancer and neurological diseases.
“People have had to consume these waters, and they are going to have cancers and neuro diseases by all means. Is that not an emergency enough for you?” he questioned.
He urged both authorities and the public to act before the situation escalates.
“So what do you prefer — that we sit down for 5%, 10% of the population to begin to have visible neurological symptoms before we take action? No.”
Dr. Harrison also highlighted the threat of contaminated water entering the food chain, as animals and crops exposed to polluted water could further spread the toxins.
“You can’t prevent the animals from going to drink the water. Whether you like it or not, if you don’t get it through the food, you get it through the meat,” he said.
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