From October 3 to 5, 2024, Ghanaians, mostly young people, took to the streets in a three-day protest against the ongoing destruction of the country’s environment caused by illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
This protest, one of the largest environmental protests in Ghana’s recent history, highlighted citizens’ frustration at the perceived lack of effective government action against the menace, which has polluted rivers, destroyed forests and left communities suffering from the consequences.
The Roots of Galamsey
Galamsey is the term for the illegal small-scale gold mining that has plagued Ghana for decades. Gold mining has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy, but the rise of galamsey activities, often unruly and extremely dangerous, has seriously damaged the environment.
With rivers like the Tano and Birim When it turns brown due to mercury and cyanide contamination, the urgency to stop this environmental crisis has never been greater.
Local communities, especially those in mining areas, have felt the brunt of the impacts. Water sources once used for agriculture and daily needs are now toxic, leading to health problems, displacement and loss of livelihoods.
Despite government crackdowns and various military operations to arrest illegal miners, the practice continues, due to the lucrative gold market and corruption in local authorities.
Growing public frustration
The turning point for the recent protest was the government’s lack of enforcement of regulations and the perceived protection of some influential figures involved in the galamsey. Civil society groups, environmental activists and local communities accuse political elites of being complicit or turning a blind eye, which has only exacerbated the issue.
Compiled the “Stop Galamsey now!” protest, the demonstration was organized by an alliance of environmental activists and concerned citizens. The protest began on October 3 and lasted for three days, with thousands of protesters marching in Accra. The participants demanded immediate action to end illegal mining activities, punish the culprits, restore the damaged environment and release the protesters who were arrested days before.
Government response
The protests shocked the country, forcing the government to respond. Chairman Nana Akufo-Addowho had previously pledged to fight illegal mining, said the government was fully committed to ending the galamsey. He acknowledged the protesters’ frustration and announced a new plan to step up enforcement.
However, critics remain skeptical. Previous promises to tackle galamsey have often failed, and many are calling for more transparent action instead of rhetoric. Activists argue that tougher laws and tougher penalties for illegal miners are needed, but must be combined with alternative livelihood programs for those who rely on mining for a living.
What’s next?
The three-day protest marks a pivotal moment in the fight against galamsey in Ghana. It has sparked a renewed national debate about the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
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