Galamsey is making matters worse for farmers and food security - GAWU

Andrews Addoquaye Tagoe, the General Secretary of GAWU

As Ghana celebrates the 40th National Farmers' Day today, the General Agricultural Workers’ Union (GAWU) has drawn attention to the significant challenges facing the country's agricultural sector.

While farmers across the nation are honored for their hard work, the union warns that illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, is increasingly undermining the livelihoods of food producers and threatening national food security.

Andrews Addoquaye Tagoe, the General Secretary of GAWU, stated in a press release, "While we celebrate the achievements of our farmers today, we must also acknowledge the immense difficulties they face. Our farmers are among the hardest workers in Ghana, yet they remain among the poorest in society. The ongoing menace of galamsey is making matters even worse."

Mr. Tagoe continued, “Illegal mining has long been a significant issue in rural areas, but its impact on agriculture is becoming increasingly severe. Galamsey continues to pollute our water sources and destroy the land that our farmers depend on for their crops. This practice reduces agricultural productivity and jeopardizes food security.” The union has called on the government to take immediate and decisive action to curb illegal mining, which has been especially harmful to farming communities. “It’s not just the land and water at risk – it’s the health and safety of our farmers and their families. If the government is serious about supporting agriculture, addressing galamsey should be a priority,” he emphasized.

While the government has made some efforts to tackle illegal mining, GAWU insists that more needs to be done to ensure the long-term protection of Ghana’s farmers. The General Secretary pointed out that political parties should prioritize agricultural policies in their manifestos, with specific measures to address land degradation, water pollution, and the challenges posed by galamsey. “We need a national effort to protect our farmers and make their work safer and more sustainable,” he said.

Farmers also continue to face other ongoing challenges, including climate change, post-harvest losses, and fluctuating market prices. “Farmers need more than just promises – they need action. They need affordable access to inputs, protection against climate impacts, and most importantly, a safe and clean environment to grow their food,” Mr. Tagoe stated.

This year’s National Farmers' Day theme – “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security” – reflects growing concerns about the impact of climate change on farming. GAWU advocates for the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices, such as the provision of drought-resistant seeds, improved irrigation systems, and soil management techniques. "The adoption of these practices will help farmers adapt to the changing climate and ensure food security for the future," he added.

The union also emphasized the importance of occupational safety for farmers, noting, “Farming is a critical business that requires protective measures for those who work in the fields. It’s not enough to simply honor farmers today – we need to ensure their well-being every day.” GAWU called for better regulation of pesticide use and stronger support for health and safety measures in agriculture.

In addition, GAWU took the opportunity to commend agricultural extension officers for their vital work in supporting farmers. These officers play an essential role in providing training and resources that help farmers improve productivity and adapt to modern farming techniques.