His Royal Highness Togbe Adze II, Dufia of Fodome Agbesia of the Fodome Traditional Area*, has called on traditional leaders across Ghana to take responsibility in protecting the environment and fighting illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking at a forum on transnational organized crime, Togbe Adze II said the destruction caused by galamsey affects water bodies, the environment, and the health of citizens. He noted reports of birth defects in infants born to parents living in mining areas, which have been linked to chemicals used in the illegal activity. He also cited the high cost of water treatment as a result of polluted water sources.
“The menace of galamsey is not lost on any of us at all. Adults, children, leaders, every sector of this country are concerned,”_ he said.
The traditional ruler added that the issue has a transborder dimension, as some of the gold from illegal mining may be smuggled across borders and nationals from other countries are also involved.
On the role of chiefs, Togbe Adze II said “nature is the midwife of our traditions and customs” and therefore protecting the environment must be the utmost responsibility of every traditional ruler.
“As traditional rulers, protecting the environment which we all depend on should be our utmost responsibility. Everything that nature has given us to enable us thrive on God’s good earth must see protection from the hands of a traditional ruler,”_ he stated.
He urged fellow chiefs to continue educating their people and projecting moral values so that they become role models for the youth.
Speaking directly to young people, Togbe Adze II advised them to build their character, obey the laws of the country, and stay home to contribute to national development instead of seeking “greener pastures” elsewhere due to peer pressure or hardship.
“This country has the right for its youth to be upright, well-educated, healthy, and be prepared to contribute their quota to national development,”_ he said.
