A coalition of civil society organizations in agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries has called on the government to take immediate action against illegal mining, known in the Ghanaian setting as galamsey, which is devastating the country’s agricultural and aquatic ecosystems.
Under the umbrella name, the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG), the coalition noted in a statement that galamsey activities have resulted in the depletion of Ghana’s Forest Reserve, destruction of freshwater bodies, loss of aquatic life, and significant economic repercussions.
“The detrimental impacts of galamsey activities on Ghana’s environment are alarming,” the coalition said.
“We urge the government to cease all galamsey operations immediately and restore degraded lands.”
The coalition is also demanding the resignation or dismissal of the Minister for Mines and Natural Resources and his deputies, as well as the implementation of sustainable mining practices and support for affected communities and industries.
“We stand resolutely against the devastation caused by galamsey and call for innovative solutions, community involvement, and justice for affected regions,” the statement noted.
The coalition has also called on the Minister of Food and Agriculture to publicly denounce the impact of galamsey on the agricultural sector and to collaborate with the Minister of Environment to protect farmers’ lands and support affected farmers.
The group has threatened to take further action if their demands are not met.
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