Renowned economist and Professor of Finance at the University of Ghana, Godfred Bokpin, has sounded a strong warning about the dangers of irresponsible mining, describing it as the biggest threat to Ghana’s economic survival.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, June 21, Prof. Bokpin expressed deep concern over the widespread environmental and economic damage caused by illegal and unregulated mining activities.
“I have said that if anything will cause me to leave this country, it will be irresponsible mining,” he stated, emphasizing the severity of the issue.
Ghana, he noted, depends heavily on its natural resources for development. However, the destructive and unregulated nature of some mining practices is eroding the country’s long-term growth potential.
Prof. Bokpin warned that if these activities are not brought under control, the economic consequences will be dire, potentially crippling key sectors like agriculture, tourism, and water resources.
He stressed that the damage goes far beyond environmental degradation, pointing to the systemic risks posed to the broader economy if urgent action is not taken.
Calling for stronger enforcement, Prof. Bokpin urged the government, civil society, and regulatory institutions to adopt a coordinated and decisive strategy to regulate mining, punish violators, and protect Ghana’s natural wealth.
“The biggest threat to Ghana’s economic survival is irresponsible mining,” he reiterated. “If we fail to act now, the damage could be irreversible.”
