Economist and University of Ghana Professor, Godfred Bokpin has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s gold export practices, stressing that he would rather see a decline in gold exports than witness the ongoing destruction of the country’s rivers and water bodies.
In an interview with newseyegh.comProf. Bokpin questioned the government’s continued celebration of billions of dollars in gold export earnings while many communities, especially in the Central Region, struggle to access clean and safe water. He described the situation as a failure of governance, emphasizing that the environmental and social costs of unregulated mining far exceed the short-term economic benefits.
While criticizing the gold sector, Prof. Bokpin also highlighted the vital role of remittances in Ghana’s economy, noting that funds sent home by Ghanaians abroad provide a reliable and stabilizing source of foreign exchange.
On monetary policy, he acknowledged that the Bank of Ghana has the mandate to intervene when the cedi depreciates but warned that such actions must be measured and should not create artificial exchange rates or distort the market.
Prof. Bokpin concluded by urging the government to ensure that its economic policies align with Ghana’s long-term development goals, calling for a shift toward sustainability, responsible resource management, and policies that prioritize the well-being of citizens over short-term financial gains.
