A newly released research report by the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS) has revealed alarming levels of mercury contamination in key food crops—including cassava, kontomire (cocoyam leaves), and plantain—harvested from areas affected by illegal mining (galamsey) in Atiwa West, Eastern Region.
The study, which examined the environmental and public health impacts of artisanal and small-scale gold mining, confirmed that mercury—a toxic heavy metal used in gold extraction—has infiltrated the soil and water sources, subsequently contaminating food crops grown in the vicinity.
According to the lead researcher, Dr. Fredrick Agyemang, an environmental toxicologist at IESS, mercury accumulation in staple foods poses a serious health threat to consumers.
“This is a public health emergency in the making,” Dr. Agyemang warned. “Continued consumption of these contaminated crops could expose communities to severe long-term health effects, including kidney damage, neurological disorders, and developmental issues in children.”
Laboratory tests conducted across multiple sites in Atiwa West found that mercury levels in cassava and other crops significantly exceeded the safe limits established by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The findings are especially concerning for residents who rely heavily on these crops for daily consumption and income. Farmers, often unaware of the contamination, continue to sell their produce in local markets without any form of health screening or regulatory oversight.
Civil society groups and health advocates are raising alarm bells and calling on the government to act swiftly.
In response, the IESS has recommended a series of urgent interventions, including:
- Launching public education campaigns in affected communities
- Conducting widespread soil and crop testing in mining-prone areas
- Enforcing environmental regulations and mining restrictions
- Supporting farmers to relocate or adopt safer farming practices
The discovery adds to the growing list of environmental and socio-economic issues linked to galamsey activities in Ghana, including deforestation, river pollution, and loss of arable land.
As the nation continues to grapple with the devastating impact of illegal mining, experts warn that food safety and public health must now be central to the national conversation.
Credit: 3News