The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has expressed strong support for calls urging a more aggressive national response to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as it prepares to launch a new Environmental Care and Cleanliness (ECC) Programme aimed at mobilising faith-based action on environmental protection.

The initiative will be officially launched on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 10:00am at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Ghana, Rev. Paul Wiegrabe Parish in Nima.

Faith-based environmental push launched

According to the Council, the programme is themed “A clean environment: Our responsibility!” and is designed to encourage citizens—particularly Christians, to take active responsibility in safeguarding the environment.

The CCG said the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen public engagement in environmental protection at a time when national discussions on combating galamsey have intensified.

It stressed that environmental stewardship is not only a civic duty but also a spiritual responsibility, calling on faith communities to lead by example in promoting cleanliness and sustainable practices.

Call for responsible public discourse

In a statement issued on April 28, 2026, the Council acknowledged the importance of public participation in governance and accountability, especially in relation to the fight against illegal mining.

However, it cautioned that such discussions must be conducted responsibly, stating that public debate “must be done devoid of bigotry, rancor and animosity.”

Condemnation and apology over public tensions

The Council also addressed recent tensions involving public commentary on the galamsey fight, particularly an attack by Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Freezones Authority, on Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC).

The CCG described the attack as unacceptable, while also acknowledging subsequent steps taken to de-escalate the situation.

It welcomed Dr. Awusi’s unqualified apology issued on Friday, April 24, 2026, as well as a public apology from government delivered by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

The Council further commended Apostle Nyamekye for accepting the apologies, urging the wider Christian community to embrace forgiveness and unity in the interest of national cohesion.