The Ghana Agriculture Workers Union (GAWU) is calling on the government to address the pressing issues of encroachment and on-farm land destruction by illegal miners.
The Ghana Agriculture Workers Union (GAWU) acknowledges the positive step of a 63.6% increase in the farm gate price of agricultural produce but emphasizes that the primary concern in the sector is illegal mining in our farmlands and forest reserves.
The major findings of the study demonstrated that galamsey operations have resulted in uncovered pits, water pollution, school dropout, inadequate farmlands, and farm labors in these mining areas.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has reiterated his commitment to bringing an end to illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey’ in the country.
The President disclosed that his government has re-introduced measures to fight the menace, which is significantly affecting the country’s water bodies and the environment.
He stressed that his government would collaborate with the military to bring an end to the menace.
President Akufo-Addo also directed the Minerals Commission to desist from processing or granting any request for the renewal of prospecting licenses in forest reserve areas.
Speaking to Ahotor news, the General Secretary of Ghana Agriculture Workers Union (GAWU) Edward Kareweh expressed concerns that without prompt action, more farmers are at risk of losing their farmlands due to this ongoing issue.
Story by: Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) / Ahotoronline.com
