A Call For Sustainable Solutions to Galamsey By Joyce Achiaa Obeng

A CALL FOR SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO ILLEGAL MINING(GALAMSEY) IN GHANA.

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As a nation, there have been persistent challenges for Ghana’s economy, environment and social fabric. Galamsey is one of the challenges in Ghana that has become controversial issue over the past few decades and therefore need a maximum attention. 

Galamsey is the illegal small-scale mining activities practiced in Ghana. According to a report from the Ghana Chamber of Mines, illegal mining accounted for approximately 34% of the country’s total gold production in 2019. 

There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of Galamsey in Ghana. Many people engage in Galamsey because they lack alternative sources of income, according to a study by the University of Ghana about 85% of small-scale miners in Ghana are unemployed or underemployed. The lack of strong legal and regulatory frameworks to govern the mining sector in Ghana has contributed to the increase of Galamsey (there has been significant weakness in the licensing and monitoring of small-scale mining operations, a report by the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative(GHITI).

The adverse effects of Galamsey are numerous, which include the unregulated extraction of mineral resources often leads to environmental degradation, including the destruction of forests and waterbodies, the use of toxic chemicals such as mercury in the mining process poses significant health risks to miners and nearby communities. 

Though the government has made several efforts to help prevents Galamsey over the years by imposing ban on small-scale mining in 2017, but it continues and it is estimated that up to 90% of Ghana’s mining activities are conducted illegally 

One of the critical remedies to the problem of Galamsey is for the government to strengthen the legal and regulatory framework governing the mining sector, including the enforcement of regulations and penalties for illegal mining activities. Provision of alternative livelihoods like entrepreneurship and vocational training programs for especially communities involved in Galamsey can help reduced the incentives for people to engage in illegal mining activities. Traditional authorities in Ghana play a significant role in the governance of land and natural resources therefore collaborating with them to develop community-led initiatives for sustainable mining practices could help to curb illegal mining. Public education and awareness should be intensified to inform the public about the negative consequences of Galamsey.  

To conclude, though addressing the issues of Galamsey should be a multifaceted approach by various stakeholders and government but by implementing these measures: strengthening the legal framework and improving law enforcement, creating alternative livelihood opportunities, promoting collaboration and partnerships, utilizing technology and raising awareness through education can effectively address the environment, social, and economic impacts of Galamsey in Ghana. 
These measures can contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector. 




WRITTEN BY JOYCE ACHIAA OBENG.
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Comments

Prince Ninson said…
When the leaders themselves are into it, how will it end. Lets hope so
September 2, 2023 at 9:14 AM
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