As Ghana prepares for the December 7 elections, Ghanaians living abroad are urgently calling for action on illegal mining, known as galamsey, urging voters to prioritize this issue.
Although these citizens contributed over $5 billion in remittances in 2023 and cannot vote, they are profoundly worried about the long-term impacts on the environment, public health, and the economy
The Rippleing Effects Of Galamsey
The unregulated activities of galamsey have caused significant environmental harm, including the destruction of forests and farmland, as well as the pollution of crucial water sources.
This contamination has led to widespread health problems and threatens access to clean water. The Ghana Water Company Limited has warned that without immediate intervention, water scarcity could become critical, possibly necessitating the importation of drinking water by 2030.
Stakeholders, environmental advocates, and Ghanaians abroad are advocating for sustainable solutions to combat galamsey. Although the government has launched military crackdowns, critics contend that these actions often lack the breadth and enforcement needed to tackle the underlying issues.
Experts have recommended a range of strategies to effectively address the galamsey crisis:
Strategies to Address Galamsey
1.Independent Oversight: Create a non-partisan commission to review mining permits, leases, and operations, ensuring transparency and accountability.
2.Prosecution of Offenders: Implement stricter penalties for individuals involved in illegal mining, targeting both operators and those who facilitate their activities.
3.Public Awareness Initiatives: Launch educational campaigns in mining areas to inform communities about the detrimental effects of galamsey
With increasing local and international pressure, addressing galamsey effectively could help protect Ghana’s natural resources, safeguard public health, and foster a sustainable future.
For many Ghanaians abroad, the upcoming December elections represent a crucial opportunity to highlight this urgent issue and promote meaningful change.
