Grapevine

Galamsey crisis threatens food security, cocoa industry – Bryan Acheampong

Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has issued a dire warning about the long-term consequences of illegal mining (galamsey) on the country’s food security and cocoa industry.

Speaking on PM Express Business Edition on Joy News, the Minister expressed his concerns about the destruction of farmlands, especially cocoa plantations, as a result of galamsey operations.

“It frightens me. If galamsey continues, we wouldn’t have water for irrigation, and we will be affecting the final product, which is the crops we consume,” Bryan Acheampong said.

He highlighted that illegal mining activities, which often involve the use of harmful chemicals, have polluted rivers and other water bodies that are vital for farming activities.

This, he explained, poses a direct threat to Ghana’s ability to feed itself and maintain its status as a leading cocoa exporter.