The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ghana is facing a unique challenge due to the devastating effects of illegal mining, also known as “galamsey.” The church’s traditional baptismal practices, which involve immersing new converts in rivers and streams, are being hindered by the increasing turbidity levels in water bodies across the country.

Executive Secretary of the Northern Ghana Union of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Edward Nyarkoh, lamented that galamsey has destroyed water bodies, forcing churches to construct baptisteries instead. “Previously, we were baptizing in rivers. But nowadays, all the water bodies are contaminated,” he said.

The church has been conducting baptisms in rivers and streams for years, but the current situation has made it necessary to adapt. The Northern Ghana Union of the SDA church has 2,251 congregants in the northern sector, with a total membership of 218,000 as of July 2024. About 2,000 new converts were baptized during the same period.

The Church’s Stance Against Galamsey

President of the Mid-Central Ghana Conference, Pastor Daniel Kyei-Baffuor Junior, urged pastors to speak out against galamsey. “Enough is enough… We talk against armed robbery, we talk against other social vices. But I dare say galamsey tops them”.

The Catholic Church in Ghana has also joined the fight against galamsey, calling for a coordinated effort to address the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining. Other organizations, including the Adventist Church, have reaffirmed their support for banning small-scale mining.

The issue of galamsey highlights the need for sustainable mining practices and environmental protection in Ghana. As the country struggles to balance economic growth with environmental conservation, the voices of religious leaders and communities are crucial in advocating for change.