ARTICLE
As I reflect deeply on the state of our beloved Ghana, my heart is filled with sorrow. We stand at a critical juncture where the voices of our youth—our future leaders—are crying out for justice, and yet, they seem to fall on deaf ears. Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has brought unimaginable devastation to our water bodies, farmlands, and the lives of innocent Ghanaians. And while we focus on arresting the youth who protest these injustices, we ignore the greater tragedy unfolding before our very eyes.
The Real Problem: Galamsey and Its Devastation
We must confront the harsh reality of galamsey and its effects on our country. The once-clean rivers that provided drinking water, supported agriculture, and sustained life have turned into toxic, polluted streams. Communities that once thrived on farming are now left in despair as their lands are stripped of nutrients, rendering them useless. The water bodies that sustained our lives have been destroyed for short-term gains, leaving entire regions on the brink of an environmental and humanitarian crisis.
Here are a few of the negative effects that illegal mining has unleashed on our precious land:
1. Water Pollution: Rivers like the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim, once the lifeblood of the people have become cesspools of mercury and other deadly chemicals. These toxins not only kill aquatic life but also pose a serious health threat to humans. Communities that depend on these water sources are exposed to long-term illnesses, including cancer, neurological disorders, and birth defects.
2. Destruction of Farmlands: Fertile lands that once provided food and income for thousands of families have been stripped away. Our farmers, who have toiled for generations, are being pushed into poverty as the land is rendered barren. The loss of farmland means a decline in food production, which will lead to food shortages and skyrocketing prices in the future.
3. Threat to Livelihoods: Beyond just the environmental destruction, galamsey has robbed countless Ghanaians of their livelihoods. Farmers, fishermen, and even local businesses are suffering as the land and water they depend on are ravaged by illegal mining.
4. Endangerment of Future Generations: If we do not stop this destruction, we are sentencing future generations to a life of poverty and environmental disaster. Our children and grandchildren will inherit a land that cannot sustain them, all because we failed to act when it mattered most.
Foreign Exploiters: A Hidden Threat
It is painful to see how we have allowed foreigners to take advantage of our resources and leave destruction in their wake. These foreign actors, often disguised as investors or business partners, come into our country, strip our land of its wealth, and return to their own countries to enjoy the fruits of their deception. Why should we allow foreigners to deceive us, harm our future, and leave us with nothing? The riches they take from us belong to the people of Ghana, and yet, we are the ones left to suffer the consequences.
Stop Arresting the Youth: Listen to Their Cries
It is disheartening to see the response of our leaders when the youth, the backbone of our nation, rise to speak out. Instead of being heard, they are arrested, silenced, and demonized. But ask yourselves this: Would the youth resort to such desperate actions if their voices were heard, if they saw genuine efforts to solve the problems that plague our nation? The frustrations of the youth are real. They are witnessing the destruction of their future, and when their cries for help are ignored, they are pushed to the edge.
Arresting the youth will not solve the problem—it will only deepen their anger and frustration. What we need is not force, but dialogue and action. Leaders must open their ears to the cries of the people and make a genuine effort to address the issues at hand. If those in authority continue to ignore the youth today, I fear we may see far worse actions tomorrow. Desperation can lead to dangerous outcomes, and we cannot afford to let things escalate further.
A Call for Action: The Time Is Now
This is a critical moment in our nation’s history, and we cannot afford to stand idly by. We must hold those in power accountable, especially the financiers and concession owners behind illegal mining operations. It is time for transparency, accountability, and real leadership. We cannot continue to sacrifice our land, our water, and our people for the benefit of a few.
To the government, I say this: If you truly care about the future of Ghana, stop protecting those who destroy our land. Take immediate and decisive action to end illegal mining and restore our rivers and farmlands. Listen to the cries of the youth—they are not your enemies, they are your future. If you fail to act now, the consequences will be dire, and the youth may rise in ways that will be beyond control.
To my fellow Ghanaians, I urge you to stand strong. Do not be swayed by political games or false promises. Demand accountability from your leaders, protect your communities and remember that we are all stewards of this land. God has entrusted Ghana to us, and it is our responsibility to safeguard it for future generations.
Let us come together as one people, united in the fight for justice, for our land, and for the future of our children. May God bless Ghana and guide us in this critical time.
To the Chiefs Who Claim They Lack Power Over Galamsey: A Call for Responsibility
To our revered chiefs, who often say they don’t have the power to stop illegal mining (galamsey), I must humbly ask: who grants permission when someone wants to acquire land or a plot in your towns? Who oversees the affairs of the land within your jurisdiction?
The truth is, the chiefs hold great authority and influence over their communities, including matters of land use. When it comes to land acquisition for development, settlement, or farming, it is often the chiefs who give their consent and grant access. So, how is it that this same power is seemingly absent
By Prophet Wisdom Aha
Servant of God and Advocate for Truth
