The General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) has raised alarms over the severe shortage of vegetables and the resultant hike in prices across Ghana.

Mr. Edward Kareweh, the General Secretary of GAWU, attributed these issues primarily to the rampant illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey, that plague the vegetable production hubs of the country. This report delves into the multifaceted impacts of galamsey on agriculture, particularly vegetable farming, and calls for urgent policy interventions to mitigate the looming threat of food insecurity.

Illegal mining activities have severely affected several aspects of agricultural production in Ghana. According to Mr. Kareweh, the communities that serve as the primary hubs for vegetable production are the same areas heavily impacted by galamsey. This overlap creates significant challenges for farmers attempting to cultivate crops in these regions.

“Vegetables are delicate crops; you need clean water to grow vegetables, but you don’t necessarily need clean water to grow cocoa or oil palm because the water that runs under it must not necessarily be the one that we can drink.”
Mr. Edward Kareweh, the General Secretary of GAWU

Mr. Kareweh said galamsey had led to soil erosion, water pollution, land destruction, heavy metal contamination, and soil infertility, cautioning that the situation was going to be worse if appropriate measures were not taken.

The General Secretary of GAWU further explained that the water required for vegetable production must be nearly equivalent to drinking water. However, illegal mining activities have contaminated most of the water sources, leaving the remaining farms vulnerable, particularly during the rainy season when floods can devastate vegetable crops.

Natural Factors and Policy Shortcomings

While galamsey is a major contributing factor to the vegetable shortage, Mr. Kareweh acknowledged that natural factors, such as seasonal changes, also play a role. However, he pointed out that certain policies exacerbate the situation instead of addressing the natural gaps in food production.

“Tomatoes generally should not be in abundance like they were in January and February, but you have to look at the marginal increase. That is why, at this time, as opposed to previously, every market day the price goes up and becomes far more costly than before, and that is what we need to investigate.”
Mr. Edward Kareweh, the General Secretary of GAWU

Mr. Kareweh also lamented the high costs associated with vegetable production, including land preparation and pesticides. These costs add to the financial strain on farmers, making it difficult for them to sustain and expand their operations. He stressed that addressing these policy shortcomings is critical for improving the overall agricultural sector in Ghana.

In light of the severe impacts of galamsey on agriculture, Mr. Kareweh called on policymakers to implement sustainable mining practices. He urged for immediate action to avert the impending threat of food insecurity in Ghana. Sustainable mining practices would not only protect the environment but also ensure the availability of clean water and fertile land for agricultural activities.

Mr. Kareweh’s appeal underscores the need for a coordinated effort between government authorities, local communities, and industry stakeholders to combat illegal mining and promote sustainable development practices. By prioritizing environmental conservation and agricultural productivity, Ghana can work towards a more secure and prosperous future for its agricultural sector.

The severe shortage of vegetables and the escalating prices in Ghana are symptoms of a larger issue rooted in illegal mining activities. The General Agricultural Workers Union, through its General Secretary Mr. Edward Kareweh, has highlighted the urgent need for policy interventions to address the environmental, social, and economic impacts of galamsey.

As the country grapples with these challenges, it is imperative for stakeholders to collaborate and implement sustainable solutions that will ensure the long-term viability of Ghana’s agricultural sector.