The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has raised alarm over a sharp increase in kidney and liver diseases in communities affected by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
According to the association, the surge in renal and hepatic complications is directly linked to the contamination of water sources with mercury and other toxic heavy metals used in illegal mining operations.
Speaking in an interview on Sunday, October 19, 2025, GHOSPA National Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Owiafe, described the situation as a major public health crisis that demands urgent government action.
“We are seeing a growing number of patients presenting with kidney and liver-related illnesses, particularly in galamsey-prone areas. This is becoming a serious threat to the wider population,” Dr. Owiafe stated. “That is why we, both as GHOSPA and in collaboration with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, are calling for swift and decisive action from the government.”
Dr. Owiafe noted that while the health risks of illegal mining have long been known, little progress has been made to address the root causes.
“We’ve examined the long-term health implications of galamsey in detail. The time for talk is over — we now need strong, deliberate measures from the authorities to tackle this menace,” he urged.
GHOSPA’s call adds to growing public concern over the environmental and health impacts of illegal mining, as contaminated water continues to pose grave risks to both ecosystems and human health across affected regions.
