Minority Leader of Parliament, Osahen Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has warned that the destructive practice of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, is eroding Ghana’s future by destroying farmlands, poisoning water bodies and robbing young people of sustainable livelihoods.

Delivering a keynote address at the Young Commons Forum Summit held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Osahen Afenyo-Markin charged students to take up the mantle of leadership by confronting challenges that threaten the nation’s future, particularly illegal mining.

“As we dream together, let us also confront the dangers that threaten our future. None is more urgent than the menace of illegal mining, otherwise known as galamsey. This destructive practice is stealing your future. It is robbing farmers of fertile soil, poisoning the water of our children and destroying the environment you and I must inherit,” he declared.

The Minority Leader cautioned that continued silence or indifference on the issue would make citizens complicit in “selling tomorrow for today’s gain.”

He therefore urged the youth to become active voices in the national struggle against galamsey.

“If we allow galamsey to continue unchecked, then we are complicit in selling tomorrow for today’s greed. I therefore challenge you, the youth, to be at the forefront of this fight to speak up, protect our rivers and insist on sustainable ways of harnessing Ghana’s natural resources.

"Enough of the political rhetoric and games. The situation is real and the consequences are dire,” he added.

Afenyo-Markin tied the fight against illegal mining to broader themes of leadership, accountability, and service. He emphasized that Ghana’s progress cannot be achieved solely through laws or policies, but through the collective integrity of its citizens, especially the younger generation.

“If Ghana is to rise, it will not be because of one President, the Parliament or one policy. It will be because young people choose to rise to the occasion. It will be because you decide to serve a cause greater than yourselves. A degree or a job title is admirable, but character and integrity and service are what truly build a nation,” he told the gathering.

The Minority Leader outlined three key action points for young people: embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, demand accountability from leaders and build strong communities through service.

He underscored that innovation in technology and digital creativity was crucial for Ghana to remain competitive, while responsible use of social media and civic engagement were equally essential in ensuring good governance.

On building strong communities, he urged the students to measure success not merely by personal achievements but by the positive impact they make on others.

He shared his own story of being remembered for his early work with an NGO that supported young people before he entered active politics, stressing that “people don’t forget the good things we do.”

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