Hundreds of people marched through Ghana’s capital, Accra, on Friday in a peaceful protest against illegal gold mining, known locally as ‘galamsey.’ Demonstrators called on authorities to take decisive action against the unlicensed mining practices that are causing widespread environmental destruction and health risks.
The rise in illegal small-scale gold mining comes as global gold prices have surged by nearly 30 percent this year, fuelling a significant increase in activity. Small-scale mines produced 1.2 million ounces of gold in the first seven months of 2024, surpassing the total output of 2023, according to data from Ghana’s mining regulator.
Despite the economic boost, the unchecked mining has led to severe consequences. ‘Galamsey’ is notorious for polluting rivers, destroying forests and cocoa farms, endangering miners’ health, and contributing to rising crime rates. With Ghana’s general election approaching on December 7, the issue has gained political significance, as voters demand stronger action from the government.
Friday’s protest, dubbed an ‘environmental prayer walk,’ saw hundreds of participants hand a petition to the president’s office, calling for a ban on illegal mining. The march followed plans by labour unions to hold a nationwide strike against ‘galamsey,’ although the strike was partially called off after the government made promising concessions, local media reported.
The protests come at a crucial time for the government, led by outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has been dealing with Ghana’s worst economic crisis in decades. With a massive debt restructuring impacting livelihoods across the country, illegal mining has become a focal issue for many voters.
Ghana, one of the world’s largest gold producers, sees around 40 percent of its total gold output come from small-scale mines. However, 70-80 percent of these mines operate without license, exacerbating environmental and social problems linked to the illegal practice. The protesters are calling for immediate government intervention to protect the country’s natural resources and public health.
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