- A Rocha Ghana protests against galamsey.
- Hundreds demand gov't protection for water bodies & forests
- Galamsey causes deforestation, pollution and health risks.
- Protesters call for state of emergency and mining reform.
Hundreds of volunteers from A Rocha Ghana, a conservation organization, have taken to the streets to demand government action against illegal mining, also known as galamsey. Armed with placards bearing messages urging the government to act, the protesters dispersed throughout the capital city, calling on the President to safeguard Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Daryl Bosu, deputy director of A Rocha Ghana, emphasized that this demonstration is part of a broader effort to pressure the government and stakeholders to protect Ghana’s natural resources. Bosu expressed frustration that despite galamsey’s devastating impact, government leaders seem apathetic to the issue.
Galamsey has ravaged Ghana’s environment, causing deforestation, habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil degradation. The practice also poses significant health risks to miners, including exposure to toxic substances like mercury and cyanide.
The protesters, representing various organizations, civil society groups, and professional bodies, are demanding that the government ban all mining activities in river buffer areas and forest reserves. They also call for a state of emergency to address the crisis.
Bosu stressed that Ghana needs to mainstream its mining regime to ensure clean rivers and provide safe drinking water for its citizens. He lamented that government leaders are indifferent to the devastation, leaving communities to suffer.
The impact of galamsey is felt across Ghana, with regions like Ashanti, Western, and Eastern experiencing extensive deforestation, water contamination, and loss of biodiversity.
A Rocha Ghana’s protest is a call to action, urging the government to prioritize environmental protection and public health. The organization seeks to raise awareness about the devastating effects of galamsey and push for sustainable solutions.
The protest is part of a broader movement to address Ghana’s environmental challenges. By mobilizing public support and pressure, A Rocha Ghana hopes to compel the government to take decisive action against galamsey.
As the debate around galamsey continues, one thing is clear: urgent action is needed to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure a sustainable future for its citizens.
