The Methodist Church of Ghana is calling for stronger efforts to fight illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
The Church warned that the destruction of farmlands and pollution of rivers and other water bodies are becoming a serious threat to Ghana.
The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Ghana, Most Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, said religious leaders need to take a more active role in protecting the environment and addressing the damage caused by illegal mining.
He made the call at the opening of the Methodist Church Ghana’s 52nd Conference in 2026.
According to him, the recent devastating floods in the country have shown that Christians need to take their responsibility to protect the environment more seriously.
“The recent, devastating deluge in the country exposed the inadequate conception of Christian stewardship and responsibility that we have worked with,” he said.
The Presiding Bishop said the destruction of farmland and pollution of water bodies caused by illegal mining should be treated as part of the Church’s responsibility to speak up on important issues affecting society.
He said the Church’s vision and mission should not only be expressed in words but should also lead to real and measurable action.
“Our vision and mission statements must not remain empty slogans; we must pray about them, work towards them, and consciously look out for measurable outcomes on how effective we have been in the discharge of our duties as a church,” he added.
He called on religious institutions to strengthen their efforts to educate the public, speak against environmental destruction and take practical steps to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
He also urged churches and other religious groups to promote responsible care for the environment for the benefit of present and future generations.
