Illegal mining popularly known as galamsey, has caused devastating effects on Ghana’s environment, biodiversity, and water bodies.
Climate Communications and Local Governance-Africa (CCLG-Africa) calls on the presidency, parliament, the council of state, traditional authorities, faith-based organizations, and all stakeholders to take immediate action against the menace which has become a threat to the survival of Ghanaians.
The rampant destruction caused by galamsey requires a non-partisan approach, prioritizing the well-being of citizens and safeguard future generations.
The alarming rate of environmental degradation and climate change calls for the swift passage of the Environment Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament ¹.
This legislation is crucial in regulating illegal mining activities that have ravaged Ghana’s natural resources and threatened the livelihoods of communities.
Devastating Consequences of Galamsey leads to the contamination of fresh water sources, leading to increased risk of waterborne diseases.It also results in deforestation and land degradation of the land surface, affecting farming especially cocoa production and biodiversity.
The act causes destruction to the sources of livelihoods of households, displacement of communities, and results in economic instability.CommendationCCLG-Africa commends those traditional authorities who have taken proactive measures to prevent surface mining within their jurisdictions.
We also salutes the Ghanaian media for their relentless advocacy and keeping the issue of galamsay at the front burner.
However, more needs to be done.Call to ActionCCLG-Africa calls on all Stakeholders to adopt a non-partisan approach, prioritize the protection of the environment for sustainable development.
We urge both the Majority and Minority Members of Parliament to expedite the passage of the Environment Amendment Bill to strengthen regulation and oversight of the mining sector in an effective manner.CCLG-Africa also call on all legislators to be circumspect, honest and guided by their oversight duties as they pass commentary on the subject matter of illegal mining to protect the nation’s interests at all times.
Appropriate Government Institutions must collaborate with local governance structures, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities to combat illegal mining.
The fight against galamsey requires a collective effort.TWay ForwardTo address the challenges posed by illegal mining, Ghana must explore ways to better organize and regulate artisanal and small-scale mining.
This can contribute to job creation, improved livelihoods for small-scale miners, and promote inclusive development.
Together, we can mitigate the impacts of illegal mining and safeguard Ghana’s environmental heritage for future generations.
