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The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has called for an immediate and comprehensive ban on all illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
In a strongly worded statement issued on September 9, 2024, UTAG condemned the government’s previous anti-galamsey efforts and threatened nationwide industrial action if a total ban is not imposed by the end of the month.
The association highlighted the destructive impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment, economy, and public health.
UTAG warned that if the current trajectory continues, Ghana could be forced to import potable water within six years.
Additionally, the country’s cocoa production has dropped by 45% this year, with illegal mining costing the economy an estimated $2.3 billion annually.
The statement also raised concerns about rising health issues in mining areas, with a 35% increase in respiratory diseases linked to toxic chemicals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead contaminating water bodies and food supplies.
UTAG criticized government-led initiatives such as Operation Vanguard and Operation Flashout, labeling them as “monumental failures” plagued by corruption.
The association expressed frustration over the use of small-scale mining as an economic tool by political leaders and elites, leaving local communities to suffer the environmental and health consequences.
UTAG called on the government to act decisively by the end of September, vowing to join forces with other labor unions for nationwide industrial action if the demand for a complete ban is not met.
“The time for action is now,” UTAG stated, urging all Ghanaians to unite in the fight to protect the country’s natural resources and secure a sustainable future.
