Galamsey has left our river deities powerless – Fetish Priest laments

Illegal mining, or galamsey, has weakened Ghana’s river deities, diminishing their protective powers and contributing to rising crime, disasters, and societal vices, according to Okomfo Baffour Gyau, a member of the Fetish Priests Association.

Speaking at the 14th Yam Festival in Bibiani Old Town, Gyau lamented that polluted rivers have rendered traditional curses ineffective, once feared deterrents against theft and wrongdoing.

He urged the government to end galamsey, which he said also jeopardizes sacred rituals and public health through increased disease outbreaks. Christian leaders have similarly decried water pollution for disrupting baptism practices.

In a separate appeal, the Chief of Nkawie, Oheneba Kwame Ako, called on Ghanaians to maintain peace as the December elections approach, emphasizing unity and non-violence.