File photo of the destruction galamsey causes to water bodies in Ghana

Private medical practitioner, Dr Dennis Bortey, has expressed grave concern over the long-term health implications of illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey," on Ghana’s food chain and water systems.

He warned that the pervasive presence of toxic heavy metals in food and water poses a severe national health threat, already manifesting in rising cases of serious illnesses among young people.

In a TV3 video posted on X on July 2, 2025, Dr Bortey described the situation as “heartbreaking,” highlighting the alarming quantum of heavy metals contaminating Ghana's food supply.

“It’s heartbreaking to see what is going on in terms of the quantum of these heavy metals our food is laced with,” he said.

He explained that while certain trace elements like iron, zinc, and magnesium are essential for the human body in small amounts, excessive levels become highly toxic.

“Iron, for instance, helps increase blood levels, but beyond a certain point, it becomes poisonous and can lead to conditions like hemochromatosis,” he explained.

Research indicates that galamsey operations frequently release hazardous substances such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium into the environment, which can then accumulate in water, soil, and food crops.

According to Dr Bortey, the impact of this contamination is already evident in hospitals across the country, where a rising number of young people are being diagnosed with serious health conditions often associated with heavy metal exposure.

These include neurological disorders, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and kidney failure.

“We are seeing too many young people coming in with strokes and kidney failure. Just this morning, I saw a 36-year-old with high blood pressure and another young person with kidney failure,” he revealed, underscoring the urgency of the crisis.

Dr Bortey warned that the danger extends far beyond just mining communities and affects the entire country.

“We think we are safe in Accra, but it is nationwide. The water running through our taps is not clean. Even after bathing, dirt remains on the towel,” he noted, suggesting widespread contamination.

He stressed that existing water purification systems may not be sufficient to filter out all the harmful contaminants.

“No matter how much the sewage system tries to eliminate these substances, some still seep into the water. This poses a danger to all of us. No one is safe,” he cautioned.

He consequently, called for more comprehensive solutions to address the pervasive health risks associated with galamsey.

MRA/VPO