Galamsey Puts Herbal Medicine at Risk – Ebenage Herbal CEO
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ebenage Herbal, Dr. Ebenezer Agyemang, has sounded a strong warning that Ghana’s herbal medicine industry could collapse if illegal mining is not stopped.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony in Atwima-Kwanwoma, he said galamsey has polluted rivers, destroyed fertile lands, and contaminated medicinal plants, making it difficult for herbal companies to access clean raw materials.
“The activities of illegal mining have devastated our water bodies. If this continues, Ghana may soon import even basic foods like cassava and plantain,” Dr. Agyemang cautioned.
He stressed that herbal medicine relies on clean water and uncontaminated plants, but mercury and other chemicals from mining are undermining the effectiveness of herbal drugs.
To secure resources, he urged herbal practitioners to start cultivating their own medicinal plants and called on government to support large-scale organic farming.
Dr. Agyemang also appealed for tougher action against galamsey and alternative livelihoods for miners, warning that failure to act could endanger not only herbal medicine but also food security and public health.
“We cannot afford to trade the health of our people and the future of our industries for short-term gains. The time to act is now,” he declared.
