The Right Reverend Dr. Festus Yeboah-Asuamah, Anglican Bishop of the Sunyani Diocese, has issued a passionate call for urgent investment in youth development and job creation as a strategic response to the country’s deepening challenges of illegal mining and corruption.
Addressing the opening session of the Third Session of the Fifth Synod of the Diocese at St. Anselm’s Cathedral in Sunyani, Rt Rev Yeboah-Asuamah lamented the growing vulnerability of Ghana’s youth to harmful and illegal practices, particularly galamsey (illegal mining), which he described as both a moral and environmental crisis.
“Our young people are not inherently lawless. They are desperate. The lack of viable opportunities is pushing many of them into illegal and dangerous livelihoods,” the Bishop stated, urging the government to prioritize job creation initiatives that provide hope and dignity.
Under the Synod’s theme, “From Maintenance to Mission: Navigating Change for a Vibrant Future,” the Bishop underscored the Church’s evolving role in not only spiritual matters but also social transformation.
Linking environmental stewardship to Christian faith, he declared, “The earth is the Lord’s, and we are its caretakers. As Christians, we must lead in the protection of creation. Galamsey is an affront to our faith.”
He called on all stakeholders—including the Church, traditional authorities, and civil society—to stand united in combating illegal mining, which continues to pollute water bodies, destroy fertile land, and threaten public health.
Turning his attention to corruption, Rt Rev Yeboah-Asuamah warned that the progress Ghana seeks will remain elusive if the fight against graft is not intensified. “Corruption robs the poor, weakens institutions, and erodes public trust,” he said. While acknowledging that some strides have been made, he insisted that greater political will, stronger law enforcement, and policy follow-through are essential.
The Anglican leader challenged the government to act with urgency in creating sustainable employment pathways for Ghana’s youth, emphasizing that economic desperation should never be a gateway to environmental destruction or moral compromise.
“As a Church, we are ready to work with government and all well-meaning groups to build a future where our youth thrive, our environment is protected, and our institutions are just,” he concluded.
