The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) has called for urgent talks with the government and organized labour to address the environmental devastation caused by illegal gold mining, known locally as “galamsey.”

The General Secretary of GNASSM, Mr. Godwin Armah, expressed deep concern about the potential ramifications of an upcoming nationwide strike planned by labour unions and emphasized the need for cooperative and comprehensive measures to combat the crisis.

Speaking on the issue, Mr. Armah acknowledged the severe toll that illegal mining is taking on Ghana’s environment, particularly on its water bodies and forest reserves.

“Organized labour has shown its serious concern about illegal mining by declaring a nationwide strike from 10 October.
“We call on the government to urgently signal a credible way forward on the ‘galamsey’ issue to avert the damaging effects of a general strike on our already fragile economy.”
Mr. Godwin Armah, General Secretary of GNASSM

While supporting the labour unions’ demand for action, Mr. Armah stressed the importance of a balanced approach that considers the economic importance of small-scale mining, a vital industry for many Ghanaians.

He warned that a nationwide strike could have severe economic consequences, particularly for an economy that is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global challenges.

“Labour and government should engage in discussions towards finding lasting and sustainable solutions to illegal mining, which respect the role of the relevant technical and regulatory institutions and without political partisanship.
“There should be a bipartisan approach to dealing with the illegal mining menace. Those who are politicking with the issue for their selfish gain should desist from it.”
Mr. Godwin Armah, General Secretary of GNASSM

Mr. Armah noted that illegal gold mining is a multi-faceted problem that requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, local communities, and the miners themselves.

Organized labour’s strike is intended to pressure the government into taking swift action against illegal mining activities. It comes in the wake of increasing public anger over the environmental damage caused by the unregulated and often dangerous practices of galamsey operators.

These small, informal gold miners typically operate without oversight, often in protected areas such as forest reserves, causing deforestation, soil erosion, and the contamination of rivers and lakes.

GNASSM’s Renewed Efforts

Mr. Godwin Armah, General Secretary of GNASSM

According to Mr. Armah, the association has renewed its commitment to tackling the illegal mining menace by increasing its on-the-ground efforts.

“Our task force will soon be deployed to flush out illegal miners as part of our renewed efforts to clamp down on the menace,” Mr. Armah declared.

The task force will work in collaboration with local authorities and law enforcement to identify and shut down illegal mining operations.

Mr. Armah revealed that this is part of the Association’s broader initiative to restore discipline within the small-scale mining sector and ensure that mining is carried out in a more sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.

Mr. Armah reiterated that while GNASSM supports efforts to end illegal mining, any solution must be carefully thought out to avoid unintended economic consequences, particularly for the millions of Ghanaians who depend on small-scale mining for their livelihoods.

“The government, organized labour, and other stakeholders need to come to the table for meaningful discussions that will result in lasting solutions.
“This is not just about ending illegal mining, but also about ensuring the survival of the legitimate small-scale mining sector, which plays a crucial role in our national economy.”
Mr. Godwin Armah, General Secretary of GNASSM

As the battle against illegal mining intensifies, the involvement of all stakeholders in crafting a sustainable and just solution will be key to addressing both the environmental and economic challenges posed by galamsey.