Concern regarding the rise of kidney and liver disease cases in communities impacted by illegal mining operations has been voiced by the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA).
The group claimed that the high concentrations of mercury and other harmful metals poisoning water supplies used by homes in mining areas are directly responsible for the rise in hepatic and renal problems.
In an interview on Sunday, October 19, 2025, Dr. Emmanuel Owiafe, National Chairman of GHOSPA, stated that the matter must be addressed immediately by the government since it poses a serious threat to public health.
“A number of patients are now being reported with increased issues related to their kidneys and livers, and it is becoming a menace to the entire population. That is why we, as the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana and the GHOSPA alike, are calling for swift and decisive action from the government,” he said.
The association has long talked about the negative health effects of galamsey, and Dr. Owiafe added that he thinks it’s time for authorities to stop talking about it and take action.
He underlined that “We have examined several aspects of the health effects of galamsey. The decision now must be something decisive that the government can take,”
Source: newsthemegh.com