CCLG-Africa Calls for Urgent Collective Action Against Illegal Mining in Ghana

Climate Communications and Local Governance-Africa (CCLG-Africa) has issued a strong call to the government, parliament, traditional authorities, and all stakeholders to take immediate and decisive action against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. The organization warns that the devastating environmental and socio-economic effects of galamsey have reached a critical point, threatening the survival of Ghanaians and the country’s natural heritage.

In a statement released on Wednesday, CCLG-Africa highlighted the severe impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s water bodies, biodiversity, and agriculture, particularly cocoa farming. The group stressed the urgency of passing the Environment Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament, as a crucial step toward regulating illegal mining and curbing the ongoing destruction of the country’s natural resources.

The Devastating Effects of Galamsey

Galamsey has caused widespread contamination of freshwater sources, putting communities at risk of waterborne diseases. The practice has also led to significant deforestation and land degradation, undermining agricultural productivity and displacing entire communities. CCLG-Africa noted that the loss of livelihoods due to the destruction of arable land has contributed to economic instability and deepened poverty in affected regions.

“The rampant destruction caused by galamsey requires a non-partisan approach that prioritizes the well-being of citizens and safeguards future generations,” the statement emphasized.

Commendations and Continued Advocacy

CCLG-Africa commended traditional authorities who have taken proactive measures to prevent illegal mining within their jurisdictions. The organization also applauded the Ghanaian media for their relentless coverage of the galamsey issue, keeping it in the public eye. However, CCLG-Africa stressed that more needs to be done, especially in terms of government action and legislative oversight.

A Call to Action

CCLG-Africa urged both the Majority and Minority Members of Parliament to expedite the passage of the Environment Amendment Bill, emphasizing its importance in strengthening regulations and oversight of the mining sector. The group also called on all lawmakers to be honest and guided by their oversight responsibilities when addressing the issue of illegal mining, ensuring that the nation’s long-term interests are protected.

The organization called for collaboration between government institutions, local governance structures, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities to effectively combat galamsey, emphasizing that the fight requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.

The Way Forward

To address the challenges posed by illegal mining, CCLG-Africa advocated for a more organized and regulated approach to artisanal and small-scale mining. The group believes that properly structured small-scale mining could contribute to job creation, improved livelihoods, and inclusive development, without causing environmental harm.

“Together, we can mitigate the impacts of illegal mining and safeguard Ghana’s environmental heritage for future generations,” the statement concluded, reinforcing the need for urgent and collective action to tackle the galamsey menace.

About CCLG-Africa

About CCLG-Africa is a network of Media Professionals, Environmental Experts and Local Governance Practitioners, dedicated to the pursuit of issues concerning Climate Change and the Environment through advocacy, education, capacity building and Information dissemination.