Sunyani: Pastor Jerry Ohene-Acquah is urging the government to use seized galamsey equipment for land reclamation instead of burning them. He noted that the seized equipment could help restore Ghana's degraded lands and expand agricultural value chains.
According to Ghana News Agency, the pastor in an interview in Sunyani also emphasized the importance of community involvement, including traditional authorities, pastors, and community leaders, to protect reserved forests, agricultural lands, and water bodies from galamsey activities. Pastor Ohene-Acquah stressed that prosecuting culprits without political, religious, or ethnic influence would deter others and benefit current and future generations.
He also cautioned against politicizing the galamsey fight, saying it hinders efforts to restore lost vegetation, improve water quality, and boost the economy. Therefore, he called on the security agencies and the judiciary to be proactive in deterring individuals who engage in such criminal acts. He urged the security officers and the judiciary to prosecute culprits without any interference.
In a related message, Pastor Joseph Adams of Elim City International expressed concern about the need to address substance abuse, particularly among young people, and promote moral values in society. He urged parents, teachers, and religious leaders to take responsibility in shaping the next generation.