Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, remains a major menace facing the country despite continuous efforts by both past and present governments. The activities of illegal miners continue to destroy farmlands, pollute water bodies, and deplete forest reserves, with little progress made in curbing the practice.
In the Western North Region, key rivers such as the Bia, Tano, Sui, and Ankobra have been severely polluted as a result of illegal mining activities. This situation has left many communities without access to clean and safe water, posing a serious threat to public health and the environment.
The Resource Foundation, a non-governmental organization that advocates for climate change and environmental protection, has called on the government to declare a state of emergency in the fight against galamsey. The Foundation believes this is the only way to mobilize the necessary resources and demonstrate the level of urgency required to address the crisis.
According to Mr. Elliot Mensah, the Executive Coordinator of the Resource Foundation, the fight against illegal mining is directly linked to the development of the nation. He pointed out that the country has already lost eight heroes in a recent helicopter crash . describing the menace as a threat not only to the environment but also to national security.
Mr. Mensah further expressed concern that no river in the Western North Region remains clear due to the scale of destruction caused by galamsey. He noted that although the Foundation has worked with stakeholders to push for the passage of laws to ban mining in river bodies and forest reserves, such legislation is yet to be passed by Parliament, undermining efforts to win the fight.
He criticized both past and present governments for failing to achieve results despite the establishment of anti-galamsey taskforces, including the Blue Water Guard. According to him, these interventions have been ineffective, as illegal mining continues to thrive across the country.
The Resource Foundation has recommended that government restrict or regulate the importation of galamsey equipment into Ghana as part of the measures to curb the menace. It also called for the creation of alternative livelihood programs, particularly job opportunities for the youth in agriculture, supported with seed capital. Mr. Mensah emphasized that without meaningful employment, many young people will continue to turn to galamsey as their only source of livelihood.
