 has reinforced calls for a more robust national response to illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, as it prepares to roll out a new Environmental Care and Cleanliness (ECC) Programme.){kind=link}
The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has reinforced calls for a more robust national response to illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, as it prepares to roll out a new Environmental Care and Cleanliness (ECC) Programme.
The initiative is set to be officially launched on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Ghana, Rev. Paul Wiegrabe Parish in Nima, under the theme, “A clean environment: Our responsibility!” The programme aims to mobilise citizens, particularly Christians, to take active roles in environmental protection and sustainability.
In a statement issued on April 28, the Council indicated that the launch comes amid heightened national discourse on the government’s efforts to tackle galamsey, which continues to pose significant threats to water bodies, farmlands, and public health.
While acknowledging the importance of citizen participation in governance, the CCG urged that such engagements be conducted responsibly. It stressed that public discourse, although essential for democratic accountability, must be “devoid of bigotry, rancor and animosity.”
The Council also addressed recent tensions surrounding commentary on the anti-galamsey fight, condemning remarks made by Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Freezones Authority, directed at Apostle Eric Nyamekye, who also serves as President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC).
Describing the attack as unacceptable, the CCG nonetheless welcomed subsequent efforts to ease tensions. It noted Dr. Awusi’s unqualified apology issued on April 24, 2026, as well as a public apology from the government delivered by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah on April 26, 2026.
The Council further commended Apostle Nyamekye for accepting the apologies, urging the broader Christian community to emulate his example in the spirit of forgiveness, unity, and reconciliation.
Beyond the controversy, the CCG emphasised the urgency of collective action to address environmental degradation. It called on all Ghanaians to actively participate in safeguarding the environment, underscoring that environmental stewardship is both a civic duty and a spiritual responsibility.