Church of Pentecost shifts to rubber pools as galamsey pollutes rivers

The Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Eric Nyamekye, has raised concerns over the impact of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, on both religious practices and livelihoods in Ghana.

Delivering the State of the Church Address at the Church’s 48th General Conference on Wednesday, 22 April, Apostle Nyamekye said the pollution of rivers and streams is disrupting key ordinances such as water baptism in mining-affected communities.

“The extensive pollution of water bodies due to illegal mining has hampered traditional water baptism… necessitating a shift to synthetic rubber pools in several districts,” he stated.

Beyond its effect on religious practices, Apostle Nyamekye warned that environmental degradation is also undermining the economic stability of church members, particularly those engaged in farming and fishing.

He cited erratic rainfall patterns, declining cocoa yields, and the seasonal migration of fish stocks as factors affecting livelihoods and, by extension, the financial strength of local church assemblies.

“These unpredictable environmental conditions… continue to impact the steady financial growth and stability of affected local assemblies,” he said.

Despite the challenges, the Church continues to expand its social interventions. Apostle Nyamekye disclosed that by the end of 2025, skills development centres had been established in Bolgatanga and Essam to provide vocational training for young people.

He added that the Church is supporting master craftsmen to train apprentices as part of efforts to reduce unemployment.

Additionally, the Church has undertaken and handed over several infrastructure projects to the state, including health facilities and prison camps, as part of its broader contribution to national development.

Apostle Nyamekye reiterated the need for urgent action to address illegal mining, warning that its environmental and socio-economic consequences continue to deepen.