Lay down your tools – Archbishop Kwofie tells Catholics involved in galamsey; urges same from other religious leaders

Archbishop Kwofie of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie has issued a fervent call for Catholics in Ghana to abandon their involvement in illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey and has called on leaders of all religious denominations to urge their congregants to do same.

The Archbishop’s remarks came as part of a broader appeal to combat the environmental degradation and public health crises associated with these operations ongoing in the West African country earlier today at an Environmental Prayer Walk organised by the Archdiocese and the Conference of Major Superiors, Ghana.

“Galamsey cuts across religions and denominations,” the Archbishop stated, emphasizing that the issue affects Catholics, Methodists, Anglicans, Pentecostals, and traditionalists alike. “I vehemently call on my Catholics to lay down their tools. You too, leaders of other religions, and pastors of souls, do the same. Perhaps we can inspire some to relinquish their actions and seek repentance.”

Highlighting the diverse ethnic groups involved in galamsey—from Ahanta to Ewe and Ashanti to Ga—the Archbishop called for unity among Ghana’s chiefs and community leaders. “These ethnic groups have overlords or paramount chiefs. We must all come together to stop this menace,” he urged.

Archbishop Kwofie painted a stark picture of the potential future if galamsey continues unchecked, warning of severe health implications for the next generation.

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“We don’t want to give birth to deformed babies—babies with three or five limbs, or with brain disorders,” he said, stressing that the Church remains deeply concerned about the ramifications of illegal mining on public health and the environment.

Watch Archbishop Kwofie’s speech below