KEY POINTS
- Hundreds of Ghanaians protested against illegal gold mining, known as ‘galamsey.’
- The boom in unlicensed mining has caused severe environmental damage.
- Government faces increasing pressure to act ahead of the December elections.
In protest of the sharp increase in illegal gold mining, or “galamsey,” hundreds of Ghanaians peacefully marched through Accra’s streets on Friday. The protesters demanded that the government stop this unlawful activity, which has seriously harmed the environment and endangers public health.
Surge in unlicensed mining fuels protests
The illegal gold mining boom in Ghana has accelerated this year, driven by a 30 percent rise in global gold prices. According to data from Ghana’s mining regulator, small-scale miners produced 1.2 million ounces of gold in the first seven months of 2024, surpassing last year’s total output.
However, the surge in ‘galamsey’ operations has prompted a growing outcry over its destructive impact on forests, waterways, and cocoa farms, as well as the dangers faced by miners.
Friday’s protest included a large group from the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, who led an “environmental prayer walk.”
According to Reuters, the group submitted a petition to the president’s office, calling for an immediate ban on informal mining. The protest comes just weeks before Ghana’s general election on December 7, where illegal mining is expected to be a key issue.
Government faces mounting pressure
While President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration has grappled with the worst economic crisis in decades, the illegal mining problem remains a critical challenge.
Despite government promises to address the issue, ‘galamsey’ continues to thrive, with about 70-80 percent of small-scale mines operating without licenses.
Pressure is also coming from labor unions, which had planned a nationwide strike against illegal mining this week. Although some strike actions were called off following discussions with the government, the issue remains a source of tension ahead of the elections.
Ghana, the world’s leading producer of cocoa and a major gold exporter, risks further environmental degradation if the mining boom continues unchecked.
Impact on local communities and economy
Illegal mining not only devastates the environment but also contributes to a range of social and economic issues. Communities affected by ‘galamsey’ face polluted rivers, deforestation, and a loss of arable land.
Additionally, the influx of migrant workers into these mining areas has fueled concerns over rising crime rates.
With about 40 percent of Ghana’s total gold output coming from small-scale mines, tackling illegal operations is seen as crucial to ensuring sustainable development.
However, the challenge remains in balancing economic incentives for miners with the need to protect the environment and communities
