Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has asked academics to adopt a more proactive approach to solving the grave issue of illegal mining, often known as galamsey, in Ghana.

Although politicians have played an important role in debates about the fight against galamsey, he believes that their efforts alone will not be enough to achieve long-term solutions.

He recommended the inclusion of academic professionals in the fight against galamsey so that they might use their knowledge, talents, and analytical abilities to generate solutions for combating the canker.

Speaking at a special event held by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Kufuor called for prompt action owing to the negative repercussions, which include environmental degradation, water body destruction, and loss of arable land. These aforementioned consequences have far-reaching ramifications for the country’s future.

“The topic of illegal mining and the proper use of our natural resources is one we must address with critical analysis and urgency to achieve the long-term solutions that we must achieve.

"I therefore urge thought leaders such as the academia, especially institutions like GIMPA, to take up the mantle and lead conversations that bring solutions to these pressing national challenges for the immediate and long term.”