Ghana’s illegal mining sector, known as “galamsey,” plays a pivotal role in the country’s socio-economic landscape as the nation prepares for presidential elections. Workers engage in hazardous mining practices out of necessity, facing dire consequences for agriculture and water quality. The electoral candidates are pressured to address this urgent issue, yet public skepticism about political commitment to sustainable solutions persists.
In Ghana, as the nation prepares for presidential elections, the illegal mining sector known as “galamsey” has emerged as a significant issue impacting both the economy and the environment. Near Accra, a variety of laborers engage in this hazardous trade, aware of its detrimental effects on the landscape, yet feeling compelled to continue due to a lack of alternative employment opportunities. The workers, including individuals like Frank—whose real name remains undisclosed—earn a meager income, but it is often more lucrative than legitimate jobs in a country facing high unemployment rates.
The consequences of illegal mining are evident, with vast expanses of farmland ruined and water sources polluted by hazardous chemicals. Ghana, one of the world’s top gold producers and cocoa exporters, has seen its agricultural land eroded and rivers damaged as the galamsey activities worsen. The recent electoral campaign has seen candidates from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) grapple with addressing this pressing social issue. However, many feel the promises made by political leaders lack tangible, enforceable strategies to address the systematic problems posed by illegal mining.
Public sentiment among the youth is emblematic of a broader frustration with government policies; there is a demand for sustainable solutions over temporary fixes and enforcement actions. Despite government efforts to curb such activities, miners express feelings of alienation in national planning, with calls for job creation and responsible mining practices receiving prominent attention.
Illegal mining has become a critical concern in Ghana, intertwining with the political landscape as the nation approaches a presidential election. Known locally as “galamsey,” this sector has burgeoned in response to growing unemployment and poverty, as many individuals resort to mining for survival. While this activity may offer temporary financial relief, it brings severe social and environmental repercussions, further exacerbating issues that candidates in the upcoming election must contend with.
As Ghana approaches a pivotal electoral moment, the challenges posed by illegal mining cannot be overlooked. This situation not only highlights systemic economic issues but also raises crucial concerns regarding environmental sustainability and governance. With candidates vying for public support, it remains to be seen whether actionable and effective policies will emerge to address the deep-rooted issues brought to light by the galamsey crisis.
Original Source: www.france24.com
