The European Union (EU) has warned that Ghana’s ongoing illegal mining crisis, locally known as galamsey, could soon have severe consequences for the country’s agricultural exports if mercury pollution continues to seep into the food chain.
Speaking on the Joy Super Morning Show on Tuesday, the EU Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, expressed deep concern over the environmental and health risks associated with galamsey activities. He cautioned that continued contamination of farmlands and crops with toxic chemicals could lead to export restrictions on Ghanaian agricultural produce destined for European markets.
“I wouldn’t want any consumer to have polluted goods or farm products,” Ambassador Skinnebach said. “No Ghanaian or European consumer should eat sweet potatoes or any farm produce containing mercury residues. So yes, it will impact your exports.”
Call for Political Will and National Coordination
The Ambassador stressed that addressing the illegal mining menace demands strong political commitment and coordinated national action. While acknowledging the EU’s readiness to support Ghana in its fight against galamsey, he noted that progress will only be achieved when the country’s leadership implements a decisive and unified strategy.
“We’re willing to help, but first and foremost, a political solution is required,” he emphasised. “Once that solution is in place, we are ready to assist — whether through technology, regulatory frameworks, or other forms of support.”
Ambassador Skinnebach reaffirmed the EU’s long-standing partnership with Ghana, stating that the Union remains committed to helping the nation address environmental degradation and strengthen sustainable agricultural practices.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of the issue for Ghana,” he said. “As a trusted partner, we are eager to help ensure that economic development does not come at the expense of public health and environmental integrity.”
Mounting Pressure on Government
The EU’s caution adds to mounting pressure on the Ghanaian government from civil society groups, environmental advocates, and international development partners to intensify the crackdown on illegal mining.
Over the years, galamsey operations have devastated water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves, threatening not only Ghana’s environmental sustainability but also its reputation as a reliable source of safe and high-quality agricultural exports.
With Ghana’s export-driven economy heavily dependent on cocoa, fruits, and root crops, experts warn that unchecked mercury pollution could jeopardize access to international markets — particularly the European Union, one of Ghana’s key trading partners.
The Ambassador’s warning serves as a timely reminder that Ghana’s fight against illegal mining is no longer just an environmental issue, but a growing economic and public health concern that could affect livelihoods and national revenue.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
Do you have a story to share? Send it to our editorial team at editor@wesleyannews.com
 has warned that Ghana’s ongoing illegal mining crisis, locally known as galamsey, could soon have severe consequences for the country’s agricultural exports if mercury pollution continues to seep into the food chain.){kind=link}