“Malformation, Intestinal Obstruction, Gastroschisis”: Erastus Donkor links birth defects to galamsey toxins

A disturbing connection between illegal mining activities and rising birth defects in parts of Ghana has emerged, as investigative journalist Erastus Asare Donkor delivered a stark health-focused presentation at the 20th Kronti ne Akwamu Public Lecture held by CDD-Ghana.

Presenting data gathered through months of field investigations, Donkor warned that illegal mining is no longer just an environmental crisis but a fast-growing public health emergency with deadly consequences.

He revealed that as of October 15, 2025, five forest reserves have reached “red” status, indicating severe environmental destruction, with 27 others classified as “yellow.” Even the Wheat National Park has slipped into the “orange” category due to frequent incursions by violent, excavator-wielding illegal miners — a situation he said could soon push the park toward irreversible damage.

But the most alarming revelations centered on health.

Donkor reported that between January and June this year, a major hospital recorded:
– 12 cases of anorectal malformation,
– 5 cases of intestinal obstruction,
– 7 cases of gastroschisis,
– 8 cases of spina bifida, and
– 3 cases of encephalocoele.

A significant number of these cases, he said, originated from communities heavily involved in illegal mining, sometimes referred to in medical notes as “galaxy tone areas.” Doctors are now probing possible links between the toxic exposure associated with these areas and the surge in birth defects.

Out of 35 birth defect cases traced to these mining zones, 16 mothers were either directly involved in illegal mining working as sand carriers or sand washers or were married to men working in the trade.

Donkor warned that prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and polluted water may be contributing to these life-threatening congenital conditions.

He issued a particular warning over the growing use of cyanide leaching, describing the practice as one of the deadliest threats to miners and surrounding communities.

“Cyanide poisons the air, the water and even the skin. Inhalation, ingestion, or simple contact can lead to serious illness or death,” he said

The chemical, he added, contaminates rivers and wells, kills aquatic life, destroys crops, and remains in soil for years.

Although cyanide use is strictly regulated under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Health, Safety and Technical Regulations (2012), illegal operators continue to deploy it secretly in forested areas, according to the journalist.

He called for urgent national action, stressing that the health of Ghana’s present and  future generations is already at risk.