By: Ghana news agency

Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has called on journalists to highlight the critical challenges facing the mining sector.

He stated that journalists play a critical role in shaping the nation’s narrative and it was time for them to go beyond sensational headlines to delve deeper into the complexities of mining policy, economic benefits, challenges, and innovative solutions.

Mr. Dwumfuor made the call at a two-day workshop jointly organised by the GJA and the Ghana Chamber of Mines to educate selected journalists on mining-related issues.

He highlighted the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey), which he said poses a significant threat to national security, causes environmental degradation, and fuels social conflicts in communities. He noted that chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, birth deformities, and kidney failure, have been linked to galamsey and the use of harmful chemicals.

The GJA President asserted that a lack of political will from successive governments to effectively address the issue has caused significant harm to Ghana, with several water bodies destroyed through illegal mining activities.

He called on journalists to be relentless in their pursuit of truth, shedding light on issues including the exploitation of local communities and loopholes in regulatory frameworks. He emphasised that incisive reporting could lead to policy shifts, ensuring better and more responsible extraction of mineral resources for national development.

Mr. Dwumfuor expressed gratitude to the Ghana Chamber of Mines for its commitment to building the skills of journalists.

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, stated that mining was about sustainability and stressed the need for the sector to contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana beyond just generating revenue.

He solicited the support of the media to optimise the inherent value of the mining sector for the benefit of Ghanaians, noting that the sector must pursue balanced returns that maximise state benefits while sustaining investments.

Dr. Ashigbey affirmed the Chamber’s commitment towards ensuring that the mining sector contributes to the country’s development in a sustainable and responsible manner.