Galamsey Menace: Why We Are Still Battling It

Galamsey, as we have come to know it is a real menace in Ghana. Galamsey is a coined word used to describe illegal artisanal mineral extracting process, which relies heavily on manpower under very harmful working conditions. Galamsey workers do so at the detriment of the environment and the public health of society. 

I do not seek to elaborate on the effects of galamsey: these troubles are well documented. The menace of galamsey has been with us for half a century now, but without hope of a solution. 

I have been searching for answers to why this illegal small scale mining is on the increase. Very graciously, the constitution of our land has a solid prognosis. According to Article 257 (6) of the constitution of our republic and Section 1 of the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, every mineral in its natural state in water and upon any land in Ghana, streams, rivers, water courses throughout Ghana, exclusive economic zone and any area covered by the sea or continental shelf is the property of the Republic of Ghana and shall be vested in the President on behalf and in trust for the People of Ghana. 

The aforementioned provision in our law is unequivocal on whose jurisdiction mineral resources lay. It is not only the mandate of the president to protect our mineral resources but also, he/she is to ensure each and every Ghanaian lives in a safe environment. Unfortunately, we have not seen enough commitment made in this regard. 

It is estimated that a total of about 50,000-300,000 persons engage in illegal mining. All these persons do so with only their personal interests at heart: the income they earn. But it is more disappointing to note that the office tasked to defend the interest of all Ghanaians has failed to do so. 

No president has been willing to incur the wrath of huge number of persons who form the galamsey chain, knowing very well any brave action to do so would have dire consequences for the politician at the polls. Talks of the supervisory role of parliament are also undermined by the political system we practice. Majority in parliament will not risk losing their status due to galamsey activities. 

The lack of political will to end galamsey has brought us where we are.