If unchecked, Galamsey Operations will threaten Mahama’s Climate and Sustainability Goals

The Mahama-led government has demonstrated a commendable commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability in Ghana. Upon assuming office, President Mahama re-aligned key ministries, appointing a dedicated Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability and establishing the Ministry of Energy and Green Transitions. These steps reflect a clear intention to prioritize renewable energy technologies and environmental protection—a move that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.

However, while these institutional changes are a step in the right direction, they are not enough on their own. The harsh reality is that unchecked illegal mining operations, commonly known as galamsey, continue to ravage Ghana’s forests, rivers, and farmlands. If left unaddressed, these activities will undermine any progress the government makes toward climate sustainability. The stakes are high, and the time to act is now!

The Devastating Impact of High-Tech Galamsey (HTG)

The rise of High-Tech Galamsey (HTG) has exacerbated the environmental crisis in Ghana. Unlike traditional small-scale mining, HTG employs sophisticated machinery and chemicals that cause irreversible damage to ecosystems. Rivers are polluted with toxic substances, forests are decimated, and farmlands are rendered barren. This destruction not only threatens biodiversity but also jeopardizes the livelihoods of countless Ghanaians who depend on these natural resources for their survival.

The consequences of HTG extend beyond environmental degradation. The destruction of forests and water bodies contributes to global climate change by reducing carbon sinks and disrupting natural water cycles. Moreover, the contamination of rivers affects aquatic life, which in turn impacts food security and public health. The ripple effects of HTG are felt across the entire ecosystem, from the smallest microorganisms to the communities that rely on these resources for their daily needs.

Banning HTG and Enforcing Sustainable Practices

Ghana cannot afford to let a few individuals prioritize short-term profits over the long-term health of our environment. The government must take decisive action to halt HTG operations immediately. This includes implementing a temporary ban on all small-scale mining activities, conducting thorough audits to distinguish between legal and illegal miners, and enforcing strict penalties for those who violate environmental laws.

But government action alone is not enough. We all have a role to play in safeguarding our environment. Communities, civil society organizations, and the private sector must collaborate to raise awareness about the dangers of HTG and advocate sustainable mining practices. By working together, we can ensure that Ghana’s natural resources are preserved for future generations.

Balancing Development and Sustainability

Ghana has the opportunity to lead by example in the fight against climate change by halting HTG activities, but this requires a collective effort. The Mahama government’s commitment to renewable energy and green technologies is a positive step, but it must be accompanied by concrete actions to address the root causes of environmental degradation. This means not only creating policies but also ensuring their effective implementation.

The fight against HTG is not just about protecting the environment—it’s about securing the future of our nation. If we fail to act now, we risk leaving a legacy of destruction for our children and grandchildren. Let us not allow the greed of a few to dictate the fate of many. Together, we can build a sustainable future for Ghana.

Conclusion
If these prevailing HTG operations go unchecked or are not halted immediately, any gains or efforts of the Mahama’s government on climate change and sustainability for Ghana will be eroded. Although it is still early days in this Mahama-Opoku-Agyemang-led regime to deal with this serious socio-ecological problem, urgent steps are needed.

Multi-sector involvement is also needed in the fight to rid our forests and rivers of the ongoing HTG operations to protect the climate and achieve short-, medium- and long-term sustainability goals and other nationally determined contributions (NDCs) of Ghana.