Protesters in Accra demand action against galamsey

Hundreds of protesters marched through Accra, Ghana's capital, in a peaceful demonstration against unlicensed gold mining, locally known as galamsey. The protesters urged authorities to take action against this dangerous and environmentally destructive practice, which has seen a surge following a nearly 30% increase in global gold prices.

Data from Ghana's mining sector regulator reveals that small-scale mines produced 1.2 million ounces of gold in the first seven months of this year, surpassing the entire output of 2023. While this boom has contributed to the economy, it has also raised serious concerns about its negative impacts on miners' health, water pollution, deforestation, destruction of cocoa farms, and increased criminal activity.

The issue has become a significant electoral topic as Ghana approaches its general election on December 7. The demonstration, dubbed an "environmental prayer walk," culminated in the delivery of a petition to the president's office, calling for a ban on informal mining.

This protest follows recent plans by labor unions for a nationwide strike against galamsey. The strike was partially called off after the government made promising provisions, according to local media reports.

The government faces mounting pressure to address this issue, as it impacts the upcoming presidential election. Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has been dealing with the country's worst economic recession in a generation and a massive debt restructuring that has significantly affected citizens' livelihoods.

Small-scale mining accounts for about 40% of Ghana's total gold output, with an estimated 70-80% of these operations being unlicensed. This high percentage underscores the scale of the challenge facing authorities in regulating the sector and mitigating its negative impacts.

The protest highlights the growing public concern over the environmental and social costs of galamsey.