Accra, September 12, 2024 – A coalition of civil society organizations in agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries, representing key industry stakeholders, has called on the government to take immediate action against the rampant illegal mining activities, known as “galamsey,” which they say are wreaking havoc on the country’s agricultural and aquatic ecosystems.
In a joint release addressed to President Nana Akufo-Addo, the executive, and parliament, the coalition expressed grave concerns about the environmental, economic, and health impacts of galamsey. The statement highlighted that illegal mining has led to the depletion of Ghana’s forest reserves and the destruction of 78% of freshwater bodies, citing a 2022 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The coalition emphasized the wide-reaching economic consequences of galamsey, including a $1.2 billion annual fish import bill due to the loss of aquatic life and biodiversity, and an estimated $2.3 billion in economic losses, according to data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). They also warned of severe threats to food security, job creation, public health, and national stability, as detailed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“The pollution of our water bodies and forest cover loss is alarming. We are also seeing health risks such as cancer, respiratory diseases, and birth defects due to exposure to hazardous substances used in galamsey operations,” the statement said, citing data from the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
Coalition’s Demands for Immediate Action
The coalition made several demands in their call to action, including:
- An immediate halt to all galamsey operations.
- The resignation or dismissal of the Minister for Mines and Natural Resources and his deputies.
- Restoration of degraded lands and prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining.
- The establishment of a National Anti-Galamsey Steering Committee comprising respected non-partisan citizens and key stakeholders.
- Deployment of military and police personnel to galamsey-affected areas.
- The development of a National Mining Policy and a Galamsey Rehabilitation Fund to support affected communities and industries.
- Promotion of agroforestry and reforestation efforts.
The coalition urged the Minister of Food and Agriculture to publicly denounce the impact of galamsey, protect farmers’ lands, and support sustainable agricultural practices. They also called for a partnership between the Ministry of Food and
Source: Chamber of agribusiness
