The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana has issued a decisive directive, demanding the immediate cessation of all illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey,” particularly those occurring in and around the nation’s water bodies. This directive, grounded in the Environmental Protection Act of 2025, underscores the gravity of the environmental crisis posed by galamsey and signals a concerted effort by the government to combat this destructive practice. The EPA, alongside the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology, the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and relevant security agencies, are poised to enforce this directive, seizing equipment used in illegal mining operations and prosecuting those found in violation of environmental laws. The urgency of this action stems from the escalating environmental degradation caused by galamsey, which threatens public health, the sustainability of natural resources, and the overall well-being of Ghanaian communities.
The EPA’s directive comes in response to alarming reports and inspections revealing the extensive damage inflicted on water bodies by illegal mining operations. Galamsey poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems, contaminates vital water sources, and jeopardizes the health of communities reliant on these resources. The widespread use of toxic chemicals in galamsey operations further exacerbates the pollution problem, introducing hazardous substances into the water supply and posing serious health risks to the population. The directive emphasizes the need for all mining entities to adhere strictly to Ghana’s environmental regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and adopt sustainable mining practices that minimize environmental impact. The EPA also encourages public vigilance and reporting of illegal mining activities to support enforcement efforts.
The devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment is well-documented, particularly in the resource-rich southern regions. Areas once renowned for their lush forests and thriving cocoa plantations are now marred by land degradation, declining agricultural productivity, and polluted water bodies. Studies have revealed the alarming extent of land destruction caused by galamsey, with hundreds of square kilometers ravaged by these illegal operations. The immediate consequences of galamsey extend beyond environmental degradation, affecting water quality, ecosystems, and human health.
One of the most significant impacts of galamsey is the dramatic increase in water turbidity, a measure of suspended solids in water. The high turbidity levels resulting from galamsey activities severely impair water quality, harming aquatic life and posing a threat to human health. The increased sediment load in rivers and streams makes water treatment more challenging and costly, straining water treatment facilities and potentially compromising the safety of drinking water. The Ghana Water Company Limited, for instance, has reported significant challenges in treating water due to excessively high turbidity levels, leading to equipment breakdowns and increased chemical treatment costs.
The contamination of water bodies by toxic chemicals used in galamsey operations is another major concern. These chemicals, including mercury and cyanide, leach into the water supply, posing severe health risks to communities that depend on these sources for drinking water, cooking, and other essential needs. The prevalence of these toxic substances in the water compels people to seek alternative water sources, often at a higher cost or with questionable safety. Furthermore, the high turbidity levels caused by galamsey can trigger algal blooms, disrupting food chains and further degrading aquatic ecosystems.
The long-term health consequences of galamsey-related water pollution are equally alarming. Studies have linked exposure to contaminated water to chronic diseases such as kidney failure, birth defects, and cancer. The cumulative effects of these health problems place a significant burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system. The widespread pollution of rivers across Ghana, including the Pra, Ankobra, Birim, Offin, Densu, and Oti, underscores the pervasive nature of the galamsey crisis and the urgent need for effective intervention. The EPA’s directive, coupled with collaborative enforcement efforts, aims to curb this destructive practice and protect Ghana’s precious natural resources and the health of its citizens. The EPA is calling on all stakeholders, including the public, to play their part in combating this environmental menace.
