On Wednesday, Ghana announced new measures to address illegal mining, responding to growing public pressure. President Nana Akufo-Addo revealed the deployment of more military personnel and naval boats to halt mining activities around polluted water bodies.
The practice, known as “galamsey”, poses a significant threat to the environment in the country, which is a major gold producer in Africa. Additionally, four specialised courts have been set up to prosecute illegal mining. Illegal mining also endangers cocoa production, a vital sector of Ghana’s economy.
The country’s economic struggles and high inflation have led to many farmers selling their land to illegal miners.
Protests erupted in Accra over the government’s handling of illegal mining, resulting in the detention of 54 activists and sparking public outcry. After initial arrests, further demonstrations were held, demanding the activists’ release and an end to “galamsey”.
The courts released the protesters, except for one accused of leading the movement. Ghana’s trade unions had planned a strike but called it off after meeting President Akufo-Addo.
With a population of 33 million, Ghana faced a financial crisis in 2022, leading to a default on its external debt. The country is gradually stabilising its economy with a $3 billion relief package from the International Monetary Fund.