Archbishop Duncan-Williams Warns of 'Powerful Forces' Opposing Gold Sector Reforms; Calls for Prayers for GoldBod

Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of Action Chapel International, has issued a stark warning regarding the integrity of Ghana’s gold sector, calling for national prayer for the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). During a recent church service, the Archbishop revealed that the institution is currently under siege by a "very powerful movement" of well-established individuals who are resistant to new regulatory measures. These interests, which have historically profited from the unregulated gold trade, are allegedly seeking ways to manipulate legal channels now that stricter controls on illegal purchases are being enforced. The Archbishop emphasized that the spiritual and physical well-being of GoldBod is essential to formalizing the sector and securing the nation's wealth.

Developing his concerns, the Archbishop highlighted a disturbing discrepancy between official government data and the reality of the illegal gold trade. He recounted a conversation with an international figure that suggested illegal gold exports from Ghana could be as much as three times higher than what is captured in official records. This massive leakage of resources is attributed to sophisticated networks that bypass state regulatory systems. Duncan-Williams expressed deep alarm over the scale of these missing records, questioning the effectiveness of current oversight and the ability of state institutions to withstand the influence of those entrenched in the shadow economy.

Central to the Archbishop's message was the devastating impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which he described as a direct threat to the future of Ghana's children. He criticized the persistent politicization of law enforcement, noting that political interests often paralyze the state's ability to act against environmental destruction. By prioritizing short-term political gains over environmental stewardship, the Archbishop warned that the country is risking its vital water bodies and farmlands. He lamented that the fear of political repercussions often hinders security agencies from enforcing mining laws against influential actors, leaving natural resources vulnerable to exploitation.

In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Duncan-Williams urged the nation to move beyond rhetoric and engage in decisive action backed by intercession. He maintained that the protection of Ghana's natural resources is not just an economic or political issue, but a moral imperative for the survival of future generations. As the government continues its efforts to formalize the gold trade, the Archbishop called on Ghanaians to pray for the courage of regulators and for a national awakening regarding environmental protection. The message serves as a reminder that without a unified front against powerful vested interests, the country’s environmental heritage and economic stability remain in significant jeopardy.