10/08/2025
ROMY RESEARCH AND CONSULTANCY GROUP EXTENDS ITS CONDOLENCES TO GOVERNMENT, BEREAVED FAMILIES AND GHANAIANS-CALLS FOR A RENEWED FIGHT AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING
We have received with deep shock and sorrow the tragic news of the helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom which claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, including the Honourable Ministers for Defence and for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation last Wednesday. These eminent Ghanaians were on their way to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), a crucial initiative in the government's fight for responsible resource exploitation and sustainable livelihoods.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Government of Ghana, and the entire nation. Ghana has lost committed sons who gave their lives in service to our country. May their sacrifices inspire us to redouble our commitment to building a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous future.
In honour of their memory, we call for a renewed, united, and uncompromising fight against illegal mining (galamsey). This fight must not be cosmetic. It must involve the active leadership of traditional authorities, the vigilance of local communities, and the full force of the law against offenders, no matter their status. Chiefs must lead by example, the youth must protect their environment, and those who destroy our water bodies and forests must face decisive justice. Illegal miners are criminals of the state and must be treated as such.
Illegal mining poses a grave threat to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), undermining clean water and sanitation, sustainable cities and communities, climate action, life on land, and economic growth. If left unchecked, it will erode the very foundations of our national development and compromise the future of generations yet unborn.
Let the tragic loss of these gallant servants be a turning point. Let us stand together as government, traditional leaders, communities, and Ghanaians to end the scourge of illegal mining once and for all.
May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.
Richmond Yeboah (PhD)
Executive Director
ROMY Research and Consultancy Group