Radiologists Link Galamsey to Rising Kidney Disease Cases, Demand Action

The Ghana Association of Radiologists (GAR) says pollution from illegal mining is fueling a surge in kidney disease and wants government to step up the fight against _galamsey_.

Speaking at the opening of the Association’s 14th Annual General and Scientific Meeting in Accra, GAR President Dr. Francis Ofei called the situation a “public health catastrophe,” not just an environmental problem.

Dr. Ofei said artisanal miners’ widespread use of mercury and cyanide is “catastrophically contaminating” rivers and streams. Millions of Ghanaians rely on those same water sources, leaving entire communities exposed to toxins that damage kidneys and other organs.

“Permit me to underscore the devastating contribution of illegal artisanal mining, popularly known as galamsey, to the rising tide of kidney disease in our country,” he told the gathering.

“The indiscriminate use of mercury and cyanide in artisanal gold mining operations has resulted in catastrophic contamination of our water bodies, and by extension, the water that millions of Ghanaians depend on.”

According to Dr. Ofei, the kidney disease burden is especially severe in communities near illegal mining sites and other high-risk areas.

The Association is urging government to intensify enforcement against galamsey to protect public health and reduce exposure to toxic chemicals linked to kidney failure.