From October 3- 5, 2024, Ghanaians, mostly youth, took to the streets in a three-day protest against the ongoing destruction of the country’s environment caused by illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
This protest, one of the largest environmental demonstrations in Ghana’s recent history, highlighted the frustrations of citizens over the government’s perceived lack of effective action against the menace, which has left rivers polluted, forests devastated, and communities suffering from the consequences.
The Roots of Galamsey
Galamsey is the term for illegal small-scale gold mining that has plagued Ghana for decades. Gold mining has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy, but the rise of galamsey activities, often unregulated and highly dangerous, has severely damaged the environment.
With rivers such as the Tano and Birim turning brown due to mercury and cyanide contamination, the urgency to stop this environmental crisis has never been greater.
Local communities, especially those in mining regions, have felt the brunt of the impact. Water sources once used for farming and daily needs are now toxic, leading to health problems, displacement, and loss of livelihoods.
Despite government crackdowns and various military operations to arrest illegal miners, the practice persists, driven by the lucrative gold market and corruption within local authorities.
Growing Public Frustration
The tipping point for the recent protest was the government’s lackluster enforcement of regulations and perceived protection of certain influential figures involved in galamsey. Civil society groups, environmental activists, and local communities accuse political elites of being complicit or turning a blind eye, which has only exacerbated the issue.
Dubbed the “Stop the Galamsey Now!” protest, the demonstration was organized by a coalition of environmental activists and concerned citizens. The protest began on October 3rd and spanned three days, with thousands of demonstrators marching through Accra. Participants demanded immediate action to end illegal mining activities, punish the culprits, rehabilitate the damaged environment and to release protesters who were arrested days prior.
Government Response
The protests sent shockwaves through the country, forcing the government to respond. President Nana Akufo-Addo, who had previously vowed to fight illegal mining, has stated that the government was fully committed to ending galamsey. He acknowledged the frustrations of the protesters and announced a new plan to intensify enforcement.
However, critics remain skeptical. Past promises to tackle galamsey have often fallen short, and many are calling for more transparent actions rather than rhetoric. Activists argue that stronger laws and harsher penalties for illegal miners are necessary but must be coupled with alternative livelihood programs for those who rely on mining for survival.
What's Next?
The three-day protest marks a pivotal moment in the fight against galamsey in Ghana. It has sparked a renewed national conversation about the balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.
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