The Ghana Bloggers Association has called on the Government of Ghana and all stakeholders to intensify their efforts to combat the growing threat of illegal mining, known as "galamsey."

In a statement issued by the Association’s President, Andre Mustapha Nii Okai Inusah, the group emphasized the urgent need for decisive action to stop galamsey, which has had devastating effects on the environment, public health, and the socio-economic well-being of communities across Ghana.

The statement, signed by Mr Inusah, outlines the Association's commitment to responsible journalism and advocacy for national development.

'It urges the government to take immediate and strategic measures to eradicate the illegal mining activities that are wreaking havoc on the country’s natural resources and public health'.

The Association highlighted the severe consequences of galamsey on Ghana’s environment and people:

Environmental Degradation: Illegal mining activities have caused widespread destruction of Ghana's natural resources. Rivers and water bodies, such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim, are heavily polluted with harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide, posing a serious threat to aquatic life and the availability of clean drinking water for millions of Ghanaians. Additionally, the destruction of forest reserves, such as the Atewa Forest, has led to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and worsening climate change.

Public Health Crisis: The chemicals used in illegal mining operations are contaminating water and food supplies, leading to long-term health issues, including cancer, respiratory diseases, and birth defects. Communities in mining areas face the risk of exposure to toxic substances, while the contamination of water sources continues to exacerbate the country’s struggles to provide clean drinking water.

Socio-Economic Harm: While a few individuals and groups profit from illegal mining, the larger society suffers significantly. Farmers are losing fertile land to mining operations, leading to food insecurity, and the destruction of the environment threatens livelihoods in agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Additionally, many children are being forced into mining activities instead of attending school, perpetuating cycles of poverty and illiteracy.

The Association urged the government to take several key actions:

Strengthen Law Enforcement: There is a need for more robust enforcement of existing mining laws. Government agencies, including the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Water Resources Commission, must be empowered to regulate mining activities effectively. Security forces should be better equipped to dismantle illegal mining operations and bring offenders to justice.

Increase Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in issuing mining licenses and concessions is crucial. Government officials and companies involved in illegal mining must be held accountable, and public disclosure of mining contracts should be mandated. Local communities should be included in decision-making processes to prevent further damage.

Promote Sustainable Alternatives: The government should prioritize sustainable mining practices and create alternative livelihood programmes for those involved in galamsey. Investments in eco-friendly technologies and vocational training for youth in affected areas could provide alternative sources of income and reduce dependence on illegal mining.

International Cooperation: The Association also emphasized the need for international collaboration to curb the export of illegally mined gold and support responsible sourcing of minerals.

The Ghana Bloggers Association affirmed its commitment to playing a crucial role in the fight against galamsey.

As a collective, they intend to use their platforms to raise awareness, hold leaders accountable, and promote dialogue among stakeholders.

They will continue to report on the dangers of illegal mining, highlight its impact on communities, and advocate for immediate action.

“We must expose corruption, negligence, and complicity in illegal mining activities, and educate the youth on the importance of environmental conservation,” the statement read.

“The younger generation must understand that their future depends on a clean and healthy environment.”

The Association called on the Government of Ghana to demonstrate bold leadership by implementing immediate and effective measures to end illegal mining once and for all.