A six-hour-long campaign against illegal mining, known as galamsey, is currently being broadcast on Channel One TV under the theme “I Stand Against Galamsey.”
The campaign, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., aims to pressure the government into taking decisive and sustainable action against illegal mining activities that are devastating the environment and polluting water bodies.
The campaign seeks to amplify the voices of various associations, organizations, and unions that have called for an end to galamsey.
Over 50 groups have issued notices and letters demanding the declaration of a state of emergency and a halt to all mining activities until a lasting solution is found.
However, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, described the call for a state of emergency as “draconian and far-reaching” during a forum with news editors on September 11. His deputy, George Mireku Duker, also dismissed calls for a blanket ban on small-scale mining, calling them misdirected.
The ongoing campaign continues to highlight the growing public outcry against galamsey and its impact on Ghana’s environment.
