In Accra, a planned environmental prayer walk has led to important clarifications from Archbishop Gabriel Justice Yaw Anokye, the Archbishop of Kumasi, regarding the involvement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. The Archbishop was quick to clarify that the Bishops’ Conference does not support the event, which was organized solely by the Accra Archdiocese, and is not to be misconstrued as a protest or demonstration against illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.” In his statement, he pointed out that the Catholic Bishops’ Conference does not endorse strikes or protests related to the galamsey issue, calling for a more comprehensive and collaborative approach involving all stakeholders.
Archbishop Anokye underscored the complexity of the galamsey issue, stating that it profoundly affects various facets of society, including local communities, the environment, and numerous industries. He mentioned that about four million individuals are directly or indirectly involved in mining-related activities, spanning legal mining, transportation, construction, and food services. His emphasis was clear: the Catholic Bishops’ Conference advocates for a holistic approach rather than confrontational actions like strikes, underscoring the need for open dialogue among all parties concerned.
He further elaborated on the multifaceted nature of the galamsey problem, recognizing its widespread implications. The Archbishop made it clear that the issue does not merely represent a political failure but is also a broader social concern involving collective responsibility. He stressed that all members of society contribute to environmental degradation in some form, whether through illegal mining or other destructive practices. Consequently, finding a resolution requires dialogue that transcends political boundaries, as the problems at hand are entrenched in social, economic, and environmental contexts.
Archbishop Anokye specifically noted that the environmental prayer walk organized by the Accra Archdiocese is distinct from any political motives or organized labour actions related to galamsey. He insisted that the event’s nature should not be hijacked or misinterpreted as a demonstration under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. These clarifications are vital because they aim to prevent misunderstanding and ensure that the public comprehends the event’s intended purpose—prayer and reflections on environmental concerns rather than a political statement or protest.
The Archbishop also highlighted the role of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in monitoring the situation closely and keeping the public informed about their position. He mentioned a recent address by Father Clement Adjei, the Secretary General, on prominent media channels, reaffirming that the environmental prayer walk is not affiliated with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. Archbishop Anokye concluded with a prayer for a peaceful resolution to the galamsey dilemma and encouraged all stakeholders to cooperate in seeking sustainable and inclusive solutions for the benefit of all, reinforcing the message of collective responsibility in addressing this critical issue.
In summary, the Archbishop’s clarifications serve to demarcate the boundaries between religious observance and political action, emphasizing the need for cooperative dialogue and understanding in tackling environmental and social challenges linked to illegal mining. By advocating for unity and prayerful reflection rather than division, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference aims to foster a collaborative environment where all stakeholders are encouraged to work towards meaningful and lasting solutions to the galamsey crisis.
