I’ll fight galamsey when elected president -Bawumia

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasised his commitment to tackling illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has become a major environmental concern in the country.

He made this known during a courtesy call on the Catholic Bishop of the Sunyani Diocese and President of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Mathew Kwesi Gyamfi, which took place ahead of his campaign in the Bono Region on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Dr. Bawumia also assured the Catholic Bishop that his government, if elected, will prioritise the protection of the country’s natural resources, while working hand-in-hand with religious institutions to foster environmental stewardship.

This, he said, is time to see the church and all faith-based organisations as development partners.

“My Lord Bishop, as I have been indicating throughout my tours and also outlined in our manifesto, I am of the firm conviction that it is time for us to see the church and, in fact, all faith-based organisations as development partners”, he indicated.

The Vice President expressed his appreciation for the church’s role in shaping society and sought the prayers and spiritual blessings of the Bishop to guide his efforts.

He underscored that religious groups, including the Catholic Church, will be valued as essential partners in decision-making and the execution of development initiatives.

Dr. Bawumia expressed his desire to collaborate closely with the church in promoting peace, education and community development.

“Our churches have built more schools and perhaps hospitals, plus others, than even our international development partners. For you in the Catholic Church and even here in Bono Region, you have produced the best Senior High School in West Africa, which is St. James Seminary.

“Unfortunately, however, while international development partners benefit from all forms of tax incentives when they import materials for such good causes, the church that does even more does not get such opportunities.

“My government, by the grace of God, will ensure that whatever benefits the international development partners and the church will also get the same and even more.”

He reiterated the importance of cooperation between the church and the government in addressing this pressing issue.

In response, the Most Rev. Mathew Kwesi Gyamfi expressed his gratitude for the Vice President’s visit, noting that it was the first time a sitting vice president had called on him.

He lauded Dr. Bawumia’s efforts to build stronger ties with religious organisations and reaffirmed the church’s commitment to working with it to ensure inclusive development.

The Bishop stressed that the church remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that uplift communities and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Also in attendance was Very Rev. Father Thomas Oppong Febiri – Vicar General of Catholic Diocese of Sunyani.

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