In a show of principled stance against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has announced an indefinite nationwide strike starting October 10, 2024.
The decision, backed by an overwhelming majority of its members, comes at a time when public discourse surrounding the environmental and economic implications of galamsey has reached fever pitch.
While many citizens have praised UTAG’s resolute action, there has been widespread disappointment over the suspension of a parallel strike organized by Organized Labour.
UTAG’s strike follows a referendum held across its 15 branches, where 2,153 members, representing 77.95%, voted in favour of industrial action, while 607 voted against it, and a negligible 0.07% abstained.
The referendum was a clear signal of UTAG’s commitment to the fight against the environmental degradation caused by mining activities in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.
In response to the decisive outcome, UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC) invoked constitutional powers to initiate an immediate strike.
“The National Executive Council (NEC) of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has successfully concluded a referendum regarding industrial action to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farmlands, and rivers”.
Prof Mamudu A. Akudugu, National President and Dr Eliasu Mumuni National Secretary
Calls for Compliance
In a statement issued by UTAG’s National President, Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu, and National Secretary, Dr. Eliasu Mumuni, the association called on its members to halt all academic and administrative activities until the government imposes a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting in protected areas.
“This is a critical national cause,” the statement emphasized, reflecting UTAG’s view that their stand is not just a union action, but a patriotic duty to protect Ghana’s environment and future generations.
The timing of UTAG’s decision is notable, as it follows the planned October 10 strike action by its parent body, Organized Labour, which had originally rallied multiple sectors to protest against the government’s inaction on illegal mining.
However, in a move that has caused public uproar, Organized Labour suspended its strike at the last minute. The public response has been sharply divided, with many questioning the credibility of Organized Labour, accusing the body of caving to political pressure.
Citizens who were prepared to stand in solidarity against galamsey were left disillusioned by the suspension, with many now shifting their support to UTAG.
Ace investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has added his voice to the growing praise for UTAG’s leadership.
In a scathing critique of Organized Labour’s suspension of its strike, he stated, “UTAG has shown leadership. The solidarity associations should not come courting our support when it’s time for their parochial interests.”
His remarks echoed the sentiment of many Ghanaians who feel that Organized Labour’s decision to step back undermines the urgency of the galamsey crisis.
The strike by UTAG has placed a spotlight on the broader issue of environmental degradation caused by illegal mining in Ghana.
Galamsey has long been a blight on the country’s landscape, with its destructive activities contaminating water bodies, eroding fertile farmlands, and decimating the country’s once-pristine forest reserves.
Despite several government interventions, the fight against galamsey has been fraught with corruption and political interference, leaving many environmentalists and concerned citizens feeling helpless.
For UTAG, however, the fight is not one of mere rhetoric. The association has long championed the need for stronger environmental regulations and enforcement, and its decision to strike demonstrates that the battle against galamsey must be fought on all fronts, including academia.
Public reactions to the strike have been largely favourable, with many praising UTAG for taking a bold stand where others have faltered.
On social media, the hashtag #UTAGAgainstGalamsey has trended, as citizens express their solidarity with the university lecturers.
“We need more of such leadership in this country,” one social media user posted, while another commented, “UTAG is standing up for our future. The government must listen.”
The suspension of Organized Labour’s strike, meanwhile, continues to fuel debate. Many citizens feel betrayed by the unions’ decision to back down from the planned action, viewing it as a missed opportunity to hold the government accountable for its failure to curb illegal mining.
With UTAG now leading the charge, the association has positioned itself as a moral compass in the fight against environmental destruction, while Organized Labour’s credibility has taken a significant hit.
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