Professor Dr. Ernest Yorke, Vice President of the Ghana Medical Association, has issued a strong warning about the serious consequences of illegal mining, or "galamsey," if swift action is not taken to address its growing impact.

During an appearance on JoyNews' Newsfile on September 7, 2024, he emphasized how galamsey activities are contaminating the country’s water sources, posing a significant threat to public health.“And the reason I am afraid to continue doing so is because, the arsenic and the mercury that may have gotten into this grass cutter that you are enjoying is non-biodegradable. So, the plants and animals that get contaminated from the poisoned soils and water, it stays within them and it gets passed on,” he lamented.Professor Yorke expressed concerns about the potential contamination of food and livestock with toxic chemicals such as arsenic and mercury, which could heighten the risk of various diseases in Ghana.

He shared a personal anecdote, noting how he now reconsiders consuming meals that may be contaminated by pollutants from these illegal mining activities.

Highlighting that the impact of galamsey extends beyond mining regions, Professor Yorke warned that even those living in cities like Accra are not immune to its dangers.“…there are tons of publications that suggest that it [galamsey] has gone beyond just the immediate environs of the galamsey area and it is coming to town. So, if you live in Accra and you think that you are safe, I can tell you if you go to Agbogbloshie, Mallam Atta market to buy food it is coming home and the dire consequence, we may not have seen it now but in the long term its going to affect your kidneys,” Professor Dr. Yorke stressed.

Pollutants are seeping into food sources sold at markets, and the long-term effects could be severe, particularly in terms of kidney health.