Ghana Catholic Bishops Call for Stronger Action Against Galamsey and Safeguarding of Minors
The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has concluded its annual Plenary Assembly held in Jamasi in the Ashanti Region from 3rd to 14th November 2026, under the theme “Communion, Participation and Mission: Preparing the Catholic Church in Ghana for Her 150th Anniversary in 2030.”
In a communiqué issued at the end of the assembly, the Bishops expressed deep concern over the devastation caused by illegal and irresponsible mining, popularly known as galamsey. They noted the pollution of water bodies, destruction of forest reserves, degradation of agricultural lands and threats to public health. The Conference called on President John Dramani Mahama to demonstrate courage and determination in the fight against galamsey and urged that a targeted state of emergency be declared in the worst-affected locations to allow for stronger regulations and enforcement.
The Bishops also raised alarm over growing rates of drug trafficking and substance abuse, describing them as a threat to public health, family stability, youth development and national security. They called for intensified intelligence-led enforcement, public education and rehabilitation services.
On education, the Conference expressed concern about indiscipline in some educational institutions, including reports of violence, examination malpractices, vandalism and allegations of sexual abuse of minors in schools. They called on the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, school authorities and the Police to investigate these allegations thoroughly and to strengthen discipline, character formation and moral education. The Bishops particularly encouraged a renewed Government-Missions partnership in the management of mission schools.
The Conference noted Parliament’s decision to rescind its earlier passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill and urged that any further consideration of the matter be approached with constitutional fidelity, legislative diligence and due regard for moral, social, cultural and human rights implications. The Church reiterated its commitment to the sanctity of human life, the dignity of every person and the authentic understanding of marriage and family.
The Bishops also addressed ongoing conflicts in parts of the country, particularly in Bawku and Kalba-Gbinyiri, calling on all parties to renounce violence, embrace dialogue and fully implement existing recommendations for lasting peace.
Looking ahead to the 150th anniversary of the Catholic Church in Ghana in 2030, the Conference announced that the years leading up to the celebration would be dedicated to the Persons of the Most Holy Trinity, beginning with 2027 as the Year of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The anniversary will be observed under the theme “150 Years of Catholic Evangelisation in Ghana (1880–2030): A Journey of Faith, Mission and Hope.”
The Bishops further addressed the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence, stressing that technological advancement must remain at the service of the human person and the common good.
The Plenary Assembly was held at the Divine Providence Pastoral Centre in the Konongo-Mampong Diocese and was graced by the Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, traditional leaders and other dignitaries.
