The outgoing Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Mrs Simone Giger, has described the destruction of rivers and forests through illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as not only an environmental tragedy but also a theft from future generations.
She observed that although Ghana was richly endowed with natural resources such as gold, those blessings could easily become a burden if not managed wisely.
Mrs Giger made the remarks at the 735th National Day celebration of Switzerland in Accra last Friday, where she stressed that Ghana’s natural beauty must be preserved.
She said one could not fall in love with Ghana’s landscapes without hoping they would remain just as beautiful for future generations, and for that reason, galamsey must stop.
The Ambassador, who will be leaving Ghana in two weeks after a four-year tour of duty, said she would depart with something far more valuable than material possessions, memories of a country that welcomed her warmly, challenged her assumptions, taught her patience, made her laugh and broadened her horizons.
Mrs Giger further stated that Ghana’s greatest resource was not gold but its young people and their immense aspirations.
She added that it was the responsibility of all who cared about the country to ensure that those aspirations did not turn into disillusionment and detachment.
Reflecting on her home country, she noted that Switzerland was much more than what met the eye or delighted the taste buds, explaining that it was built on strong institutions, a unique democracy, active citizen participation and civic responsibility.
Mrs Giger said she had experienced Ghana’s diversity firsthand, travelling across the country from Accra to Paga, Dambai, Donkokrom, Damongo, Goaso, Nkroful, Wa, Techiman, Prang and Keta, among others.
She observed that in the northern parts of the country, the vast landscapes created a sense of calm and humility, while the warmth and hospitality of the people remained deeply touching.
Along the coast, she noted, the Atlantic Ocean served as a reminder that Ghana had long been connected to the wider world, sometimes through painful history and at other times through hope.
Touching on the creative sector, Mrs Giger described Ghana’s artistic energy as extraordinary.
She said from musicians and performers to designers, writers and visual artists, there was a boldness and imagination that continued to inspire her.
The Minister of Communications, Digitalisation and Innovation, Mr Sam Nartey George, who spoke on behalf of the government, said Ghana remained committed to strengthening institutions, enhancing governance and ensuring that the aspirations of young people were realised.
He acknowledged the Ambassador’s reflections on governance, institutions and environmental stewardship, noting that such issues were not unique to Ghana but were relevant to all nations seeking to build sustainable and inclusive societies.
Mr George said the Ambassador’s call to preserve Ghana’s natural heritage and her emphasis on responsible resource management strongly resonated with the priorities of the Ghanaian people.
He commended Mrs Giger for the cordial relations she fostered during her tenure, noting that her time in Ghana had been marked by dynamism, openness and a clear commitment to deepening cooperation between the two countries.
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