Despite years of successive government efforts and substantial investments aimed at eradicating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, the issue remains a pressing concern for almost all Ghanaians.
The activities of illegal miners have evolved into a severe threat to Ghana’s ecosystems, with devastating impacts on forest reserves, farmlands, and water resources.
Environmental experts have warned that if immediate action is not taken, Ghana’s primary forests could vanish within a few years, resulting in catastrophic consequences for the country.
Notably, cocoa production saw a drastic decline of 34% in the first half of 2022 compared to the previous year, according to Ghana COCOBOD.
The environmental consequences of illegal mining extend beyond deforestation and reduced agricultural output.
Research suggests a significant increase in renal function impairment among Ghanaians, ranging from 13% to 17% of the population, or approximately 4 million to 5.2 million citizens
In recent times, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, emphasized the urgent need for the government to undertake steps to reclaim the environment from the ravages of galamsey.
His call and that of several well-meaning Ghanaians highlight the growing urgency to address the environmental destruction caused by these illicit activities.
Edward Karaweh, the General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) weighing into the conversation placed the issue of illegal mining at the forefront of discussions with political leaders aspiring to govern the country.
He pointed out that the consequences of illegal mining, exacerbated by climate change, are severely affecting the country’s agricultural sector, requiring urgent measures to address it.
Mr. Karaweh underscored the direr adverse impact of climate change on agriculture, emphasizing that expected seasonal reductions in food prices have not materialized due to delayed or insufficient rainfall.
“People think that climate change is a Western problem, but we are feeling its effects too. Why aren’t we harvesting enough? It’s not just the rains; our lands are destroyed. The persistent destruction of land by galamsey without reclamation has a lasting impact, much like the aftermath of a fire”.
Edward Karaweh, the General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU)
According to him, the widespread involvement in illegal mining, with 13 out of 16 regions actively engaged, poses a significant threat to agriculture.
“Illegal mining has become the number one threat to agriculture, making the future look bleak”, Mr Karaweh fumed.
Political Parties Urged to Articulate Strategies to Combat Galamsey
The General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union further criticized the various political parties in the country for not clearly articulating their strategies to combat illegal mining ahead of the December 7 general elections.
He expressed frustration over the lack of concrete plans from political parties on how they intend to address the galamsey menace.
“We’ve demanded clear plans from political parties on how they will address galamsey. With such extensive land degradation, how can we build irrigation dams when our rivers are destroyed? Any river dammed today would yield polluted water unsuitable for agriculture”.
Edward Karaweh, the General Secretary of the General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU)
Mr Karaweh also expressed concerns that the effects of climate change would hit Ghana harder than other countries due to the extensive damage caused by illegal mining.
The General Agricultural Workers Union General Secretary, Edward Karaweh indicated that neighboring countries like Burkina Faso are advancing their agricultural irrigation and will soon cease exporting food crops, focusing instead on processing them domestically.
“The impact of climate change, combined with illegal mining activities, will severely affect Ghana’s agricultural sector”, Mr. Karaweh concluded.
As the conversation around illegal mining continues to intensify, it is imperative for political leaders to present robust and actionable strategies to address such a devastating environmental issue.
The future of Ghana’s agriculture, environment, and overall sustainability hinges on the effective eradication of the activities of illegal mining, mostly referred to as galamsey, and the reclamation of lands devastated by these activities.
It is only through coordinated and decisive action can Ghana hopes to preserve its natural resources and secure a prosperous future for its citizens.
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