A three-day protest against illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” is currently taking place in Accra, Ghana’s capital. Organized by the group “Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey,” the protest aims to raise awareness about the severe impact illegal mining has on the country’s environment, particularly its water bodies, farmlands, and forests.
Large crowds of Ghanaians gathered at Okponglo, near the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, to march through the streets of Accra, calling on the government to take swift action to stop galamsey. The demonstration, which started on Thursday, October 3rd, will continue until Saturday, October 5th.
The Ghana Police Service has assured the public of its preparedness to maintain security during the protest. In a statement issued on October 2nd, the police outlined the designated routes for the peaceful demonstration, which will pass by several key landmarks, including the Okponglo Traffic Light, Shiashie, the Airport Traffic Light, Ridge Hospital, and Parliament House, before concluding at the Accra Sports Stadium car park.
The police highlighted the importance of a peaceful protest and reminded the organizers of their responsibilities under the Public Order Act. They stressed that participants must follow instructions to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and maintain order. Any disruptions, they warned, would be met with appropriate action.
This protest follows a recent demonstration by the Democracy Hub, which led to clashes with law enforcement and the arrest of 54 protesters. Illegal mining remains a critical issue in Ghana, with ongoing efforts by various governments, including the current administration led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, failing to fully address the problem.
Galamsey has caused extensive environmental damage, including the destruction of water bodies and farmland. Contaminated water sources, polluted with heavy metals, pose significant health risks. Medical experts have raised alarms about long-term health effects, including birth defects and other serious conditions, caused by the polluted water.
The Ghana Water Company is also facing difficulties in providing clean drinking water due to high pollution levels in the country’s rivers and lakes.
“Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey” hope this protest will push the government to take stronger action against illegal mining, which continues to endanger the environment, health, and livelihoods of many Ghanaians. Meanwhile, the police remain committed to ensuring that the protest remains peaceful and orderly.
