Ban Ghana’s cocoa on global market over destructive illegal mining

Ghana has become a nation that stubbornly glorifies illegalities, with illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey, taking over cocoa farms, forest reserves, rivers, and arable land across the country. The term Galamsey, derived from the phrase “gather them and sell,” refers to illegal small-scale gold mining in Ghana.

The current government of Ghana, led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has failed to curb the destructive practice of illegal mining. Despite numerous calls from Ghanaians and the opposition National Democratic Congress to hold politically exposed persons accountable, the government has shown little willpower to halt Galamsey and protect the environment. Notably, the President has been labeled a “clearing agent,” known for clearing his appointees of any wrongdoing, even when caught on tape.

Ghana’s cocoa sector under threat as illegal mining destroys 100,000 acres. The Mankrom Cocoa Cooperative Farmers Association has raised alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining on cocoa production, revealing that over 100,000 acres of cocoa farms have been destroyed.

In 2017, President Akufo-Addo boldly stated that he was “prepared to put his presidency on the line” to fight Galamsey, but nearly seven years later, this promise remains unfulfilled, leaving many disappointed. Influential individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, are often seen as the linchpins behind illegal mining operations, making it nearly impossible to combat the issue.

Calls for action have intensified, with prominent figures like Rev. Cyril Fayose, the General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, urging the government to name, shame, and prosecute those engaged in illegal mining. He emphasized that unless these politically exposed individuals are held accountable, progress will remain elusive.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s cocoa bean crop, a major export commodity, has been severely affected by Galamsey. Thousands of acres of cocoa farms have been destroyed, further endangering the country’s struggling economy. In response, some have suggested that the international community should ban the importation of cocoa from Ghana as an act of solidarity with the people to pressure the government into addressing the issue.

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has also raised its voice against the devastation caused by illegal mining. UTAG has threatened to strike if the government fails to take decisive action against the menace, warning that the academic calendar of tertiary institutions may be disrupted. UTAG President Prof. Mamudu Akudugu has called for strategic decisions, noting that although students will suffer, it’s better to face the inconvenience now rather than in the future. The association gave the government until September 30th to act, expressing grave concern about the destruction of over 2.5 million hectares of forest cover, increased respiratory diseases in mining areas, and the annual economic loss of $2.3 billion.

UTAG has further warned that if the current trajectory continues, Ghana could be forced to import potable water within six years. They condemned the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining as “failed and corruption-infested militarized battles.”

Adding to the growing chorus, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) is expected to hold a press conference on September 11th, lending more weight to the demands for urgent action against Galamsey. The union, along with other bodies, has emphasized that illegal mining affects everyone, regardless of political or religious affiliations, and called for decisive actions to stop the environmental destruction.

In some regions, traditional leaders have taken matters into their own hands. King Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti king, has boldly acted against sub-chiefs under his jurisdiction who were involved in or supported illegal mining. The king has disregarded two such leaders, signaling his commitment to stamping out the illegal practice in his region.

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It is clear that the fight against illegal mining in Ghana requires immediate and decisive action from the government, political leaders, and civil society. The consequences of inaction are dire, with the country facing environmental ruin, economic collapse, and a potential future without access to clean water, international buyers need to Ban Ghana’s cocoa over destructive illegal mining.