Galamsey and Plastic Pollution Putting Ghana’s Marine Life at Risk – Vice President Warns

Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has raised serious concerns about the growing pollution of the country’s seas caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey and the careless disposal of plastic waste.
Speaking during a working visit to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, she described the situation as a major threat to both the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of fisherfolk.
She emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts to protect Ghana’s water resources.
“Galamsey waste ending up in the sea is unacceptable. Dumping toxic materials into our waters is extremely worrying because it affects the fish we rely on for food and directly impacts human health,” she said.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also criticized the growing lack of respect for the fishing profession in Ghana.
She pointed out that countries such as Japan and South Korea highly value fishing, supporting it with specialized fisheries secondary schools that promote training and knowledge sharing.
She assured fisherfolk of the government’s commitment to improving their working conditions and called for greater recognition of their contributions to sustaining livelihoods and supporting the national economy.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that fisherfolk receive the support they need and the respect they deserve,” she added.