Casely Hayford Alumni Hall Association of the University of Cape Coast calls for urgent action against galamsey crisis

The Casely Hayford Alumni Hall Association of the University of Cape Coast has issued a compelling press statement urging immediate action to combat the escalating galamsey crisis that is wreaking havoc on Ghana’s natural environment.

The association highlighted the detrimental effects of illegal mining activities, particularly on the country’s water bodies and farmlands, posing a significant threat to public health and the livelihoods of citizens.

In their statement, the association expressed deep concern over the rampant pollution of rivers that were once vital sources of clean water for both communities and agriculture. The degradation of these water bodies, coupled with exposure to toxic substances, has led to alarming health risks and long-term environmental damage, severely affecting local agriculture and ecosystems.

The association called for a multi-faceted approach to address the crisis, outlining several urgent actions that they believe are necessary for protecting Ghana’s environmental integrity:

1. Immediate Halt to Illegal Mining: The association urged the government to impose a nationwide moratorium on all illegal mining operations, advocating for a zero-tolerance policy to facilitate comprehensive reforms and enhanced regulations in the mining sector.
2. Strict Enforcement of Environmental Laws: They emphasized the importance of enforcing existing environmental protection laws to safeguard ecosystems and ensure that violators, both local and foreign, are held accountable for their actions.
3. National Strategy on Resource Management: The association recommended the establishment of a strategic framework aimed at promoting sustainable mining practices that prioritize community welfare, water resource protection, and land rehabilitation. This strategy should involve collaboration with traditional authorities, local communities, and civil society organizations.
4. Commitment from Presidential Candidates: With the 2024 elections approaching, the association called on all presidential candidates to publicly commit to addressing the galamsey crisis as a national priority. They demanded clear, actionable plans from political leaders to combat the menace, with measurable outcomes and timelines for restoring the environment.

The association stated, “The fight against galamsey is a fight for the survival of future generations.” They emphasized that Ghana cannot afford to lose its natural wealth and environmental integrity due to the greed of a few individuals. They called upon every citizen, organization, and institution to join in the urgent effort to protect the nation’s water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.

Isaac Waddy, Secretary of the Casely Hayford Alumni Hall Association, confirmed that the association will closely monitor the government’s response to their recommendations in the coming weeks. They expressed a willingness to engage in further action, including peaceful demonstrations and discussions with both national and international entities, should progress remain inadequate.

The statement was also sent to key stakeholders, including the President of Ghana, the Speaker of Parliament, and civil society organizations, emphasizing the collective responsibility to address the galamsey crisis and protect Ghana’s future.