The galamsey menace continues to devastate Ghana’s environment and communities, despite government promises during the 2024 campaign period. Under former President John Mahama’s administration, efforts to curb illegal mining have faced challenges, with many questioning the effectiveness of these measures.
Galamsey has severely damaged Ghana’s water bodies by polluting rivers with toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide used in gold extraction. Over 60% of the country’s rivers are contaminated, rendering water unsafe for consumption and destroying aquatic ecosystems. This contamination has led to severe health problems, including skin diseases and other ailments, in affected communities. Rivers like the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim—vital for drinking water, farming, and fishing—are among the worst hit. Sedimentation and chemical pollution have also disrupted river flow and biodiversity, impacting fisheries and livelihood.
Agriculture, crucial to Ghana’s food security and economy, has been heavily impacted. Galamsey activities have led to the destruction of farmlands and cocoa plantations, causing a decline in food production and jeopardising farmers’ incomes. Deforestation linked to illegal mining exacerbates soil erosion and loss of fertile land, further threatening food supply chains.
Health-wise, the continued pollution of rivers compounds risks with increased prevalence of waterborne diseases and chronic conditions linked to chemical exposure. Communities in mining catchment areas face daily threats to their well-being, highlighting the human cost of galamsey.
Despite political promises, the fight against illegal mining faces hurdles, including poor enforcement, alleged complicity among officials, and the socio-economic desperation that drives individuals to take on risky mining. The issue remains a complex environmental, social, and governance challenge requiring urgent, transparent, and sustained action.
In conclusion, galamsey has not helped Ghana but rather inflicted extensive harm on its water bodies, food security, and public health. A resolute government commitment and community engagement are essential to reversing these grave impacts.
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