The Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has solemnly reminded President John Dramani Mahama of his campaign promise to ban illegal mining also known as galamsey, within his first 120 days of in office.
Speaking during the Easter Sunday Mass on April 20, 2025, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral at Adabraka, Archbishop Kwofie, called on the President to uphold his commitment to protecting Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies.
The Archbishop highlighted the Catholic Church’s deep concern about the ongoing degradation of the environment, especially through illegal mining activities.
He recalled that in October 2024, Catholics in Accra, along with members of the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious, Ghana, participated in a prayer walk to express their collective opposition to galamsey and other environmentally harmful practices.
The walk, according to the Archbishop, was a public expression of the Church’s moral stance on environmental stewardship.
Addressing President Mahama directly, Archbishop Kwofie emphasised that the Ghanaian public has entrusted him with leadership based on his firm promise to combat illegal mining.
“Mr. President, the Ghanaian public places a big trust in you and know that eyes are watching you,” the Archbishop stated.
He reminded the President that his pledge to end galamsey within his first 120 days in office formed a significant part of the Church and public’s support for his re-election.
As President Mahama nears his 120th day in office, the Archbishop noted that only a few days remain for him to fulfil this key promise.
The Archbishop noted that there are illegal miners from some part of West Africa, including countries like Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Togo, and Guinea, who are operating in areas such as Abrewa Nne Nkran.
He urged the President to act decisively, pointing out that leadership requires not only promises but also integrity and courage.
“We need men with integrity and courage. Indeed, Mr. President, eyes are closely watching. Do not disappoint,” he added.
The Archbishop further called for the example of morally upright individuals, citing the need for leaders like Nana Bosompem, who wouldn’t question whether our legal system was right or wrong, and that our forests would go back to normal.
The Archbishop reminded everyone of the hope brought by the resurrection.
Archbishop Kwofie urged Christians to rise from the “tombs” of injustice and sin in their own lives. He encouraged everyone to embrace a new way of living, one marked by justice, respect, and faithfulness.
“Jesus made His story our story,” he said. “This is what Easter is about our sorrow has turned into joy. Christ is risen, alleluia, alleluia.”
By Celestine Edem Gbologah
