Ghana Reclaims Position as Africa’s Leading Gold Producer Amidst Environmental Crisis
Ghana has regained its prestigious title as the top gold producer in Africa, experiencing an impressive 32% surge in gold production last year. The Ghana Chamber of Mines attributes this success to increased output from both small-scale and large-scale mining operations.
However, this achievement is accompanied by a pressing environmental crisis caused by illegal gold mining activities. The unauthorized mining has led to severe damage to Ghana’s forests, rivers, and other water bodies, posing significant health risks to communities residing in mining areas.
Illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey,” has become a primary source of income for many unemployed youths in southern Ghana. Yet, the consequences are dire, with experts warning that unless the current rate of environmental destruction is halted, Ghana may be forced to import drinking water in the near future.
Furthermore, the country’s vital cocoa sector faces a serious threat as farms are destroyed to make way for illegal mining activities.
Efforts by the government, including the deployment of soldiers to mining areas, have not yielded substantial success. The adoption of a military approach has not effectively curbed the issue.
In 2021, South Africa surpassed Ghana as the top gold producer on the continent due to a significant drop in Ghana’s production. However, the Ghana Chamber of Mines reports that gold output rose to 3.7 million ounces (105 tonnes) last year, up from 2.8 million ounces in the previous year.
