The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has raised alarm over a worrying rise in kidney and liver diseases in communities affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
According to the association, the surge in renal and hepatic complications is directly linked to the contamination of water sources by mercury and other toxic metals used in illegal mining operations.
Speaking at the sidelines of the Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana’s (PTAC) 16th Annual General Conference in Kumasi on October 17, GHOSPA National Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Owiafe, described the situation as a looming public health crisis that demands urgent government attention.
“A number of patients are now reporting with increased kidney and liver complications, and it is becoming a menace to the entire population,” he warned. “That is why we, as the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana and GHOSPA, are calling for swift and decisive action from the government.”
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Dr. Owiafe noted that illegal mining continues to expose thousands of Ghanaians to severe health risks through polluted water and food chains. He stressed that the government must move beyond policy discussions and take concrete steps to halt the practice.
“We have long studied and discussed the devastating health impacts of galamsey. The time has come for decisive action. The government must take bold measures to protect citizens from the long-term consequences of toxic exposure,” he said.
The GHOSPA chairman reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting national efforts to combat illegal mining and safeguard public health, urging a coordinated response from all stakeholders, including the health sector, environmental agencies, and law enforcement.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem