Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating state of law and order in mining communities, where impunity and human rights abuses are rampant.
Speaking at the Media Coalition Against Galamsey event at the Press Center on September 11, 2024, Mr. Dwumfour detailed the severe environmental impact of illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey.” This illicit activity has led to the destruction of critical water sources, with water treatment facilities shutting down due to pollution.
Communities along the Densu River, a crucial water source for Accra, are suffering from contaminated rivers, including the Ankobra, Birim, Pra, and Tano, which now pose significant health risks.
He also pointed out the extensive environmental damage inflicted on forest reserves like the Atiwa Forest, where illegal mining is ravaging ecosystems without accountability. Areas such as Osino and Konongo have been hit particularly hard, with tragic fatalities reported from unsafe mining practices, including the death of a pregnant woman in 2023 and a man in 2024.
Furthermore, Mr. Dwumfour warned of the imminent threat to vital infrastructure in regions like Ayinam, Enchi, and parts of the Western Region, exacerbated by the aggressive actions of armed illegal miners who have recently chased away a government enforcement team. This incident underscores the erosion of national security and the audacity of these illegal operations.
The destruction extends to cocoa farms, a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, in areas like Sendu and Jirabanso. The contamination of rivers and farmland is exposing the population to severe health risks, including heavy metal poisoning that can lead to brain, kidney, and reproductive problems.
Mr. Dwumfour called for immediate action from civil society organizations and coalitions, such as the Media Coalition Against Galamsey. These groups are advocating for a state of emergency, a halt to mining activities near rivers, and the cancellation of mining permits in protected forest areas.
They are also urging presidential candidates to support measures against illegal mining to prevent further environmental and human suffering.
