The Coalition Against Galamsey in Ghana has intensified its call for the government to declare a state of emergency in areas ravaged by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. They argue that the current situation satisfies the constitutional requirements for such a declaration, citing Article 31.9 (a) and (b), which allows for a state of emergency when actions threaten the essential needs of life, such as access to potable water. The Coalition emphasizes the widespread destruction caused by illegal mining, asserting that it has reached a critical level demanding immediate and decisive intervention. They criticize the government’s reluctance to declare a state of emergency, deeming it an inadequate response to a crisis that jeopardizes livelihoods, public health, and national security. The Coalition maintains that the government’s current approach has failed to curb the devastating effects of galamsey.
The Coalition Against Galamsey highlights the far-reaching consequences of illegal mining, pointing to Ghana Water Limited’s request for a substantial tariff increase of 280% as a direct result of water pollution caused by galamsey. They frame this request not as a simple tariff hike but as a consequence of the government’s failure to address the illegal mining crisis effectively. The Coalition argues that the public is being unfairly burdened with the costs of environmental damage caused by illegal miners, emphasizing that the situation has escalated beyond a point where incremental measures are sufficient. They assert that a state of emergency is now the only viable option to address the escalating crisis and protect the well-being of Ghanaians.
Furthermore, the Coalition Against Galamsey has directed its criticism towards local authorities and law enforcement agencies, calling for the dismissal and investigation of all Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in areas where galamsey continues unchecked. They accuse these officials of negligence and complicity in the illegal mining operations. The Coalition also appeals to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to address the pervasive issues of corruption and collaboration within the police force, which they believe have hampered efforts to combat illegal mining. They recommend the transfer of police commanders in galamsey-affected areas and the establishment of specific, measurable performance indicators related to combating illegal mining for the newly appointed commanders. This, they argue, would enhance accountability and ensure a more robust response to the crisis.
The Coalition’s argument is further strengthened by the perspectives of other stakeholders, such as the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana. Mr. Bismark Owusu Nortey, the Executive Director of the Association, underscored the detrimental impact of galamsey on agriculture, particularly in the Ashanti Region. He revealed that significant agricultural land has been devastated and major irrigation sources polluted due to illegal mining, jeopardizing food security. Mr. Nortey’s testimony reinforces the Coalition’s argument that galamsey poses a multi-faceted threat to Ghana’s socio-economic well-being, extending far beyond environmental concerns to encompass food security and the livelihoods of farmers.
The escalating situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action to combat illegal mining in Ghana. The Coalition Against Galamsey and other affected stakeholders advocate for a multi-pronged approach that includes declaring a state of emergency, holding local officials accountable, addressing corruption within law enforcement, and implementing targeted measures to mitigate the impact of galamsey on agriculture and food security. They argue that the government’s current efforts are inadequate and call for a more decisive and comprehensive strategy. They advocate for collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities, to combat the complex issue of illegal mining effectively.
The Coalition Against Galamsey’s renewed appeal for a state of emergency is grounded in the belief that the situation has reached a critical juncture, warranting extraordinary measures to address the widespread damage caused by illegal mining. They argue that delaying decisive action will only exacerbate the problem, further jeopardizing Ghana’s environment, economy, and social fabric. They urge the government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens and take immediate action to protect their livelihoods, health, and access to essential resources. The Coalition’s call for a collaborative and multi-pronged approach underscores the complex nature of the galamsey challenge, requiring concerted efforts from various sectors to achieve a sustainable solution.
