The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is preparing to launch a series of strategic actions aimed at pressuring the government to declare a state of emergency and impose a comprehensive ban on all mining activities, particularly illegal small-scale mining, known locally as “galamsey.”
These actions are part of the coalition’s intensified efforts to combat the devastating environmental and socio-economic effects of galamsey, which has led to widespread destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves across the country.
The coalition’s planned activities will involve a nationwide “prayer protest,” spearheaded by various religious groups, including churches and mosques, who will gather to pray for divine intervention and call for urgent government action.
The protest is expected to unite Ghanaians from all walks of life, raising awareness about the dire need to protect the country’s natural resources.
Dr. Ken Ashigbey, Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the environmental damage caused by galamsey has reached alarming levels, threatening the nation’s future water security, food production, and public health.
He reiterated the coalition’s commitment to holding the government accountable for enforcing stricter mining regulations and protecting communities affected by the destructive practice.
In addition to the prayer protests, the coalition plans to engage with civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and the international community to build a broader movement against galamsey.
They will also pursue legal avenues to challenge any lapses in the enforcement of mining regulations and call for greater transparency in the allocation of mining permits.
With the country facing mounting pressure to address illegal mining, the coalition hopes that their sustained efforts will compel the government to take swift and decisive action to safeguard Ghana’s environment for future generations.
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Story by Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoroline.com
