Back to Latest Briefings
May 26, 2026
AI-Enhanced
Ghana Radiologists urge stronger action against illegal mining amid increasing cases of kidney disease
Money
Policy
Opportunity
Growth
Key Points
- The Ghana Association of Radiologists (GAR) has urged the government to implement stronger and sustained measures against illegal mining (galamsey).
- GAR links galamsey, particularly the use of mercury and cyanide, to the contamination of major water bodies and a subsequent rise in kidney disease cases.
- An estimated 13% (four million) of Ghana's adult population, predominantly aged 20-50, are living with chronic kidney disease, posing a threat to the productive workforce.
- The Association calls for increased investment in diagnostic imaging equipment (ultrasound, CT, MRI) and public awareness campaigns for early detection of kidney disease.
- GAR advocates for a multidisciplinary approach among healthcare professionals to improve patient care and overcome traditional 'siloed' healthcare delivery.
Why This Matters
The escalating prevalence of kidney disease, directly attributed to illegal mining activities, poses a critical public health emergency and threatens Ghana's human capital, particularly its most productive age group. This situation demands urgent governmental policy intervention to safeguard public health, protect vital water resources, and ensure the nation's socio-economic stability and future productivity.
Read Full Article
View original sourceRelated Articles
July 10, 2026
Karpowership supports national clean-up exercise with sanitation equipment donation to EKMA
- Karpowership Ghana donated sanitation equipment, including wheelbarrows and refuse bins, to the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly (EKMA).
- This donation supports the government’s nationwide clean-up exercise, aiming to promote environmental sanitation and prevent future flooding.
- Karpowership Ghana staff actively participated in the community clean-up alongside residents and Assembly officials.
- The EKMA Municipal Chief Executive commended Karpowership for its continuous support and demonstration of good corporate citizenship.
- Karpowership reaffirmed its commitment to investing in the health and wellbeing of its host communities, beyond just providing reliable electricity.
July 10, 2026
Mahama calls for stricter sanitation culture as Zoomlion deploys logistics for clean-up
- President John Dramani Mahama cautioned Ghanaians against indiscriminate waste dumping, warning it worsens flooding and undermines sanitation efforts, during a National Clean-Up Exercise inspection.
- He expressed concern over the varied waste obstructing drains and urged a change in public attitude, reminding citizens of available waste disposal facilities.
- Plans include introducing a monthly national clean-up day and continuing military drainage-clearing operations beyond the two-day campaign.
- The Minister of Finance has released $150 million for dredging and flood prevention, with a call for specialized equipment for silt removal.
- Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong emphasized stricter enforcement of sanitation regulations, discipline, and continuous collaboration among government, private sector, and citizens for sustainable results.
July 10, 2026
NACOC, GES strengthen school-based drug prevention in Eastern Region
- The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Ghana Education Service (GES), and Promasidor Ghana organized a seminar in Koforidua.
- The seminar targeted Guidance and Counselling Coordinators from Senior High Schools in the Eastern Region to strengthen school-based drug prevention.
- Participants were trained on emerging drug trends, early warning signs, counselling strategies, and referral mechanisms.
- NACOC highlighted the critical role of coordinators in early identification and intervention, emphasizing schools as effective platforms for prevention.
- GES warned about new methods of drug concealment, such as cannabis infused into common products like toffees and shito, urging vigilance from school authorities.