The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has announced a firm deadline for the central government to take decisive action against illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
In a statement released, the association demands a complete ban on illegal mining activities in forest reserves by September 30, 2024, or it will proceed with a nationwide demonstration.
UTAG President, Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu, voiced strong concerns regarding the government’s ineffective efforts to tackle the galamsey crisis.
He pointed out that illegal mining has severely damaged water bodies, forests, and agricultural lands across the country.
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Prof. Akudugu referenced alarming statistics indicating that if the current situation persists, Ghana could be forced to begin importing potable water within just six years, and cocoa productivity—historically a staple of Ghana’s economy—has plummeted by 45% this year alone.
Experts estimate that illegal mining contributes approximately $2.3 billion in economic losses annually.
Furthermore, data from the Forestry Commission reveals that over 2.5 million hectares of forest cover have been irreparably destroyed.
Health concerns are also on the rise, with the Ghana Health Service reporting a staggering 35% increase in respiratory diseases in mining areas—an issue closely linked to high levels of particulate matter and hazardous chemicals, such as mercury and arsenic, contaminating local water, soil, and food.
“The devastating consequences of illegal mining are a direct result of the greed of individuals seeking wealth at any cost,” said Prof. Akudugu.
He mourned the historical degradation, asking, “Have we not already destroyed 50% of what our forefathers left us? The time for action is now.”
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UTAG has committed to a complete and immediate ban on all forms of small-scale mining, citing previous government initiatives—such as Operation Vanguard and Operation Flashout—as outright failures.
It claims that these programs have not only failed to curb illegal mining but have also morphed into instruments of economic empowerment for a select political elite.
Despite the efforts of traditional leaders, including the Asantehene, Otumfour Nana Osei-Tutu II, to combat galamsey, UTAG believes that more decisive action is necessary. “Let’s unite as a nation to protect the little we have left and safeguard the future of our youth,” the statement urged.
UTAG is calling on the Ghanaian populace to rally in support of the proposed ban on mining in forest reserves, farms, and water bodies.
Should the government fail to meet the deadline, UTAG vows to join forces with labor unions across the country to undertake significant industrial action.
“We have taken this principled stand against galamsey because our lives depend on it,” the statement concluded, firm in its demands for a total ban on illegal mining activities.
