Ghana Scholarly Society Statement on the Urgent Need to Address the Devastating Impact of Galamsey on Ghana’s Water Bodies

Ghana Scholarly Society Statement on the Urgent Need to Address the Devastating Impact of Galamsey on Ghana’s Water Bodies

The Ghana Scholarly Society (GSS) expresses its profound concern over the escalating degradation of our nation’s water bodies due to the rampant activities of illegal small-scale mining, known as “galamsey.” This environmental crisis threatens the very survival of our natural resources and the health of millions of Ghanaians.

Recent reports, including from the BBC, have highlighted the severity of the situation, warning that if immediate and decisive action is not taken, Ghana could face the unthinkable scenario of importing water within the next few years (BBC, 2024). This potential outcome underscores the urgent need for a coordinated approach to mitigate the impact of galamsey on our environment and future generations. We list 4 key approaches to address this challenge:

Fastrack Prosecutions and Enforce Environmental Laws

The Ghanaian government must take immediate and robust action to enforce environmental laws that have, thus far, been inadequately applied. The laxity in enforcement has emboldened illegal miners, leading to widespread environmental devastation. The Ghana Water Company Limited has already reported alarming levels of pollution in our rivers, which serve as crucial sources of drinkable water for millions of Ghanaians. Research presented at the Ghana Scholarly Society’s recent conference emphasised the importance of sound governance in tackling such issues. Swift prosecution of offenders must be prioritised, with severe penalties imposed to deter future violations. The government should consider setting up fast-track courts in all regions to expedite the prosecution of illegal miners and those responsible for the destruction of water bodies. Similar to measures seen in other nations, such penalties would ensure accountability at the highest levels of leadership in industries that affect the environment.”

Use a Multidisciplinary Approach to Protect and Restore Water Bodies

The preservation of our water bodies is not merely an environmental concern; it is a matter of national survival. The devastating impact of galamsey has already rendered many of our rivers and streams unusable, threatening both human health and agricultural productivity. Immediate action is required to halt all mining activities near these vital water sources and to embark on comprehensive restoration projects. These efforts must be guided by the latest environmental research and involve collaboration with local and international partners. The BBC report vividly describes the extent of the damage, with rivers such as the Pra and Ankobra choked with silt and chemicals from mining activities (BBC, 2024). The GSS conference underscored the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address these complex challenges, requiring cooperation between government bodies, academia, and the private sector (GSS Policy Brief, 2024).

Use Local Chiefs and Para-Military Forces

Local chiefs and traditional authorities are key to the fight against galamsey. As custodians of the land, they are uniquely positioned to influence and enforce community norms regarding the use of natural resources. The GSS advocates for the active involvement of chiefs in monitoring and reporting illegal mining activities within their jurisdictions. Chiefs should be empowered to collaborate with government agencies, security forces, and local communities to protect land and water bodies. Chiefs who are found to be complicit in such matters must also face the full rigours of the law.

Given the seriousness of the galamsey menace, deploying para-military forces to supervise the protection of lands and water bodies should be considered. These forces, trained specifically for environmental protection, can work alongside existing security agencies to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities. Their presence would deter potential offenders and ensure that illegal activities are swiftly addressed. This approach aligns with the need for immediate and decisive action to safeguard our natural resources and supports the broader goal of sustainable development (GSS Policy Brief, 2024).

Immediately Provide Sustainable Economic Alternatives

A key factor driving individuals into illegal mining is the lack of viable economic alternatives. The government, in collaboration with the private sector, must invest in sustainable livelihood programmes that offer real opportunities for economic advancement. The GSS conference highlighted the need for innovation and technological adaptation across various sectors to create such opportunities. By investing in agriculture, aquaculture, renewable energy, and other emerging industries, we can provide meaningful employment while preserving our environment (GSS Policy Brief, 2024). These initiatives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), which advocate for sustainable economic practices and the preservation of our natural ecosystems (UN, 2015).

A Call to Action – Get Everyone Involve

The Ghana Scholarly Society urgently calls upon all stakeholders to recognise that the fight against galamsey is not just an environmental issue but a matter of national survival. Our water bodies, which sustain our agriculture, provide drinking water, and support biodiversity, are under imminent threat. If we do not act now, the consequences will be catastrophic for current and future generations. We urge the government to prioritise this issue, implement the solutions outlined above with urgency and determination, and work collaboratively with all sectors of society to protect our precious natural resources.

The GSS stands ready to contribute its expertise and resources to this cause. We are eager to engage with all stakeholders, nationally and internationally, to develop and implement strategies that will safeguard Ghana’s water bodies for future generations.

About the Ghana Scholarly Society

The Ghana Scholarly Society (GSS) was established to unite Ghanaian academics, researchers, and professionals worldwide, pooling their collective expertise to advance knowledge and drive national development through informed policymaking. The GSS is committed to promoting research-driven solutions to the challenges facing Ghana and the African continent, with a particular focus on sustainable development. We actively engage with governmental and non-governmental organisations, both locally and internationally, to influence policies that align with global best practices and the specific needs of Ghana.