Time is running out to act on galamsey

As our rivers choke with toxic waste and forests teeter on the brink of collapse, the clock ticks closer to an ecological catastrophe due to activities of illegal miners. 

As a result, there are growing calls for a state of emergency to be declared over water bodies, the abrogation of mining concessions overlapping river buffers, and halting of mining activities within 100 metres of rivers and streams, as well as the immediate repeal of L.I 2462.

The call for the immediate repeal of L.I 2462 is a timely and urgent appeal. This legislative instrument has been widely criticised for its potential to devastate our forest reserves, with stakeholders warning that it makes all forests possible targets for mining and destruction.

The regulation, known as the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation 2022, has already led to the granting of some mining leases in forest reserves, with more applications pending.

The repeal of L.I 2462 is crucial to protecting our environmental heritage. Critics argue that the regulation is retrogressive and laden with "sinful provisions" that contradict the constitutional framework for managing the country's natural resources. They contend that L.I 2462 poses a significant threat to the nation's forestry and biodiversity.

By repealing this legislation, the country can take a significant step towards preserving our natural resources for future generations.

The Daily Graphic joins other stakeholders in urging the government to ensure that environmental protection laws served the nation's best interests.

The devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana's environment cannot be overstated. The Daily Graphic has consistently highlighted the catastrophic consequences of this illicit activity.

Our rivers, once pristine and life-giving, now flow with toxic effluent, threatening aquatic life and human health. The Birim, Pra, and Ankobra rivers, among others, have been transformed into polluted streams, destroying fishing communities and livelihoods.

In addition, galamsey has led to widespread deforestation, soil degradation and loss of biodiversity. The Atewa Forest, a treasure trove of ecological richness, faces imminent destruction due to illegal mining.

The forest's unique ecosystem, home to endangered species and a vital water source, teeters on the brink of collapse. We have already seen the effect of galamsey on the agricultural sector, especially to the cocoa industry.

We cannot pretend that we are not aware that galamsey’s effects extend beyond environmental degradation. It perpetuates child labour, fuels violence and undermines national security.

The illegal mining mafia's influence corrupts local governance, undermining efforts to combat this scourge. The human cost is staggering, with countless communities displaced and livelihoods destroyed.

To combat the scourge of galamsey, the Daily Graphic is of the view that it is essential to address the root causes of this illicit practice. Many individuals engage in galamsey due to poverty, unemployment and the lack of economic opportunities.

Alternative livelihood programmes offer a promising solution by providing sustainable income streams for communities vulnerable to galamsey's allure. Initiatives such as agricultural training, entrepreneurship development and vocational skills training can empower individuals to abandon galamsey and embrace more productive and environmentally friendly pursuits.

One successful approach is the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. By providing training, resources and market access, farmers can transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture to increase their incomes and improve food security.

For instance, the Ghana Cocoa Board's Productivity Enhancement Programme has helped cocoa farmers adopt best practices, boosting yields and incomes. Similar initiatives can be replicated in galamsey-prone areas to offer farmers viable alternatives to illicit mining.

Entrepreneurship development programmes can also play a crucial role. By providing access to finance, business training and mentorship, entrepreneurs can establish sustainable businesses, create jobs and stimulate local economies.

The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme has demonstrated success in supporting startups and small businesses. Scaling up such initiatives in galamsey-affected areas can help divert the youth from illicit mining to productive entrepreneurship.

Vocational training programmes offer another pathway to alternative livelihoods. Skills training in areas such as construction, manufacturing and services can equip individuals with marketable skills, enhancing their employability and earning potential.

Organisations such as the Ghana National Association of Teachers and the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training have implemented successful vocational training initiatives.

Targeting galamsey-prone areas with such programmes can help reduce the allure of illicit mining.

To ensure the success of alternative livelihood programmes, stakeholders must adopt a multifaceted approach. This includes collaboration between government agencies, civil society organisations, private sector entities and local communities.

Effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms must be established to track progress, identify challenges, and adjust strategies accordingly. By providing viable economic alternatives and supporting communities, Ghana can reduce the incidence of galamsey and safeguard its natural heritage for future generations.

Ghana deserves a safe and healthy environment, free from the destructive effects of galamsey.