Government has been urged to intensify efforts to reclaim abandoned illegal mining sites, commonly known as galamsey pits, which continue to claim lives in mining communities across the country.
The call was made by Bishop Ntim Gyakari, Founder and Leader of the Holy Universal Mission at Sokoban Ampayo in the Greater Kumasi City.
Speaking during the church’s 31st Watch Night Service, Bishop Ntim Gyakari expressed deep concern about the increasing number of deaths linked to uncovered and abandoned mining pits in affected communities.
According to him, government must go beyond clamping down on illegal mining and focus on reclaiming degraded lands by forcing miners to fill dangerous pits that pose serious risks to residents, especially children.
“Government must not only stop galamsey but also force miners to reclaim these sites and fill the pits. Too many people, especially children, are dying because these pits are left uncovered in our communities,” he stated.
The bishop stressed that reclaiming galamsey sites should be treated as a national safety issue, urging authorities to act swiftly to prevent further loss of life.
He added that rehabilitating degraded lands would not only save lives but also restore hope to affected communities.
The call adds to growing public pressure on government to intensify efforts at combating illegal mining while ensuring the proper rehabilitation of affected lands nationwide.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com
