The European Union (EU) has raised serious concerns about the impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, on Ghana’s agricultural exports, citing mercury contamination in farm produce as a growing risk.
EU Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, cautioned that polluted crops could soon face restrictions on international markets.
“I wouldn’t want any consumer to eat sweet potatoes with mercury residues,” he said in an interview with Joy FM, stressing that such contamination could damage Ghana’s export reputation.
His comments come amid mounting pressure from civil society and environmental groups urging the government to intensify its fight against galamsey, which continues to destroy water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves.
Ambassador Skinnebach reaffirmed the EU’s willingness to support Ghana in tackling the issue but emphasized that meaningful progress depends on strong political will and coordinated national action.
“We’re ready to assist whether through technology, regulations, or other support, but a political solution must come first,” he added.
Author: Jasmine Adjei
Development journalist
