New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has urged the government to impose an immediate 90-day nationwide suspension of all mining activities as part of an aggressive strategy to restore Ghana’s polluted rivers and water bodies.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, October 15, Dr. Acheampong described the country’s environmental situation as alarming, emphasising that bold and decisive action was needed to protect Ghana’s natural resources — even if it comes with financial sacrifices.

“Everybody should stop mining in this country. Regardless of the financial consequences, we have to agree that for the next 90 days — during the rainy season — we should stop mining,” he declared.

Dr. Acheampong clarified that his proposal was not a call for a state of emergency but rather a national consensus for environmental recovery, stressing that the temporary halt would allow authorities and communities to restore affected ecosystems and reset mining regulations.

“Let’s clear our water bodies and then engage on how we go back to mining. I am not talking about a state of emergency, but mining, regardless of where, should stop now,” he explained.

Using a vivid analogy, he likened the current situation to “trying to repair a moving train,” insisting that a complete halt was necessary before meaningful reforms could take effect.

“We cannot repair the tyre or the truck of a moving train. As long as it is speeding, we need to agree to stop,” he added.

Dr. Acheampong’s call comes amid renewed public concern over the devastating impacts of illegal mining (galamsey) on Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmlands.

Environmental experts have warned that continued pollution poses serious threats to public health, agriculture, and the country’s water supply.

His proposal adds fresh momentum to the national conversation on balancing economic growth, environmental sustainability, and responsible resource management.