Galamsey has increased food inflation, worsened the economy, and contributed to teenage pregnancy and social vices in the Western North Region, according to Elliot Mensah, Managing Director of Resource Foundation Ghana.
Mr. Mensah revealed that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has intensified in the Western North Region.
He explained that these activities are not only causing severe environmental damage but are also negatively impacting the livelihoods of people in the area.
He noted that galamsey has led to rising food prices, a worsening local economy, and an increase in social challenges such as teenage pregnancy, school dropout, and other social vices.
According to him, many communities affected by illegal mining are experiencing growing cases of youth involvement in drug abuse, armed robbery, and other criminal activities.
Mr. Mensah made these remarks following a project carried out by Resource Foundation Ghana with support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives in the Aowin, Suaman, and Juaboso districts.
The initiative aimed to educate residents on the long-term negative effects of illegal mining and its impact on future generations.
