The European Union has cautioned that Ghana’s illegal mining menace, popularly known as galamsey, poses a grave threat to the country’s agricultural exports due to mercury contamination in farm produce.
EU Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, expressed deep concern about the environmental and health risks associated with illegal mining, warning that polluted agricultural products could soon face restrictions on international markets.
“I wouldn’t want any consumer to have polluted goods or farm products. I wouldn’t get Ghanaian or European consumers to eat sweet potatoes with mercury residues in them,” Ambassador Skinnebach said in an interview. “So yes, it will impact your exports,” he stressed. His remarks come amid growing calls from civil society, environmental groups, and development partners for the government to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining.
The ambassador reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to support Ghana in addressing the galamsey challenge, but emphasised that lasting results will depend on strong political will and effective national coordination. “We’re willing to help, but first and foremost, a political solution is required. Once we have that solution, we are ready to assist — be it with technology, regulatory frameworks, or other support,” he said, acknowledging the seriousness of the issue for Ghana.
