The Youth in Natural Resources and Environmental Governance (Youth-NREG) Platform has joined the growing chorus of voices calling for a ban on all illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
In a statement dated Monday, September 16, Youth-NREG urged the government to take decisive action against galamsey by canceling all prospective mining contracts and/or licenses.
The group emphasized that this measure is necessary until a solution to the galamsey menace is found, highlighting the devastating impact of irresponsible mining on the environment and human health.
Youth-NREG described galamsey as not only an environmental issue but also a matter of injustice, stressing that it violates the right to a clean environment and good health of present and future generations.
The group’s campaign seeks to amplify the voices of various associations, organizations, and unions calling for an end to the illegal mining menace.
Youth-NREG also called on all Ghanaian youth to support and actively contribute to interventions that will lead to the restoration and protection of the ecosystem.
The group expressed deep concern about the rampant irresponsible and illegal mining activities that continue to devastate Ghana’s forest reserves, agricultural lands, and water bodies.
Youth-NREG called on the government to take immediate action, including stopping all forms of illegal mining activities, suspending legal mining activities, and canceling prospective mining contracts and/or licenses.
The group also urged the government to ensure that companies and individuals involved in irresponsible mining are held accountable and made to bear the cost of restoring damaged ecosystems.
Youth-NREG remains resolute in its commitment to protecting Ghana’s environment and promoting sustainable development for future generations.
