The Vice President of the Paediatric Society of Ghana (PSG), Emmanuel Oppong, is urging the government to treat illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, as a public health emergency, warning that its impact is quietly harming communities across the country.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on April 29, 2026, Dr Oppong expressed concern that the pollution caused by illegal mining is not just an environmental issue, but a growing health crisis affecting vulnerable populations, especially children.

For many communities living near mining sites, the effects are already being felt; contaminated water sources, exposure to harmful chemicals, and rising health complications that often go undetected until it’s too late.

According to Dr Oppong, the absence of a formal declaration limits the country’s ability to respond effectively.

“What happens when we have a public health emergency, and we don’t take the powers of government, institutions and stakeholders to mobilise resources?” he asked.

He explained that officially declaring galamsey a public health emergency would allow for a more coordinated response, bringing together government agencies, health professionals, and other stakeholders to tackle the issue.

Dr Oppong also backed earlier calls from health experts, stressing that the scale of the problem requires structured, nationwide action rather than isolated interventions.

Beyond policy, he emphasised the need to focus on the people most affected, those living in mining communities who may not even realise the risks they face.

“We need to go into communities, screen them and help them out,” he said.

He believes that early detection, health screenings, and community outreach can play a crucial role in reducing long-term health consequences, particularly for children exposed to polluted environments.

NA/VPO

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