Actress and social commentator Efia Odo has called for greater accountability in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, arguing that political leaders must do more to address the destruction caused by the practice.

Efia Odo questioned how illegal mining has continued to threaten Ghana’s environment and water bodies despite repeated commitments by successive governments to end the menace.

“There’s no way our leaders are blind to the damage galamsey is doing to our water bodies,” she said.

She argued that the scale of the environmental destruction requires a response that goes beyond political statements and promises.

According to her, the persistence of illegal mining raises questions about whether powerful individuals and networks may be benefiting from the practice or helping to sustain it.

Efia Odo said efforts to combat galamsey would remain ineffective if those allegedly facilitating or profiting from illegal mining activities are not identified and held accountable.

She also criticised both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing successive administrations of failing to match their campaign commitments with sustained action against illegal mining.

“If they can see the destruction, why does their response never match the scale of the crisis?” she questioned.

Her comments come amid continued public concern over the impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s rivers, forests and livelihoods.

Efia Odo maintained that tackling the crisis requires stronger enforcement and accountability, particularly for individuals and networks allegedly driving or facilitating illegal mining activities.

She stressed that Ghana’s response must move beyond political promises if the country is to protect its natural resources and reverse the damage caused by galamsey.