Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has urged the public to remain calm over concerns that crops grown in galamsey-affected communities may be unsafe for consumption.
His assurance follows reports suggesting that farmlands in illegal mining areas contain high levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead.
Speaking at the launch of FarmSense at KNUST, Mr. Dumelo said there is no evidence yet to confirm that crops from these communities are contaminated.
“Until research proves that food coming from these areas is laced with harmful chemicals, there is no cause for fear,” he said.
He, however, called for immediate scientific studies to map out food sources and identify any potential contamination, adding that such findings would help protect consumers from unsafe produce.
Mr. Dumelo also commended the anti-galamsey taskforce for their efforts in protecting water bodies and forest reserves, noting that while his ministry is concerned about the impact of illegal mining, the main responsibility lies with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
“We don’t want to overstep our jurisdiction. The Lands Ministry is handling it, and the taskforce is doing an incredible job,” he added.
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