The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has strongly condemned the ongoing environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has severely impacted the nation’s water bodies, forests, and overall ecosystem. In a statement issued on September 10, 2024, PRINPAG decried the greed driving these unlawful activities and warned of the long-term dangers to Ghana’s environmental and economic future.
PRINPAG urged its members to take an active role in the nationwide crusade against galamsey, highlighting the urgency of halting the degradation of natural resources. The Association called on journalists to adopt a firm, unbiased stance in exposing the perpetrators behind the illegal mining operations. PRINPAG’s leadership emphasized the necessity of exposing individuals and groups involved in galamsey, calling for the names and pictures of these offenders to be prominently featured in newspapers and on online platforms to hold them accountable.
“As part of our commitment to this cause, we encourage all our members to resist any form of influence, whether monetary or otherwise, that could undermine our efforts. Accepting such inducements would weaken our fight and jeopardize the future of our environment,” PRINPAG’s statement read.
The Association further called on Ghana’s Parliament to rise above partisan politics and prioritize the well-being of the nation by demonstrating leadership in the fight against galamsey, much like the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has done in the Ashanti region. PRINPAG also urged state institutions to rigorously enforce environmental laws and incorporate technology to combat the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities.
In the coming days, PRINPAG members will launch a “naming and shaming” campaign, publicly identifying those responsible for illegal mining, irrespective of their societal status. This move is intended to send a strong message that no one is above the law and that accountability is essential in the battle to preserve Ghana’s environment for future generations.
The Association also warned its own members against any involvement in galamsey, noting that individuals found complicit would face immediate expulsion from PRINPAG. Any member who accepts financial or material inducements to sabotage the fight against galamsey will also be expelled following disciplinary procedures.
PRINPAG reaffirmed its support for the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, pledging the full backing of its members to help minimize the damaging effects of galamsey.
“The fight is a collective one, and PRINPAG stands ready to support the national effort to combat this menace and safeguard our environment for future generations,” the statement concluded.
For further inquiries, contact Andrew Edwin Arthur, President of PRINPAG.