Presidential candidates urged to sign national pact against illegal mining

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has taken a decisive step in combating illegal mining and irresponsible mining, calling on presidential candidates for the 2024 elections to sign a National Pact to end galamsey.

In a press release issued on 3 December 2024, the coalition highlighted the urgent need for collaborative action, stating the devastating consequences of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and economy.

The statement read, “this pledge represents a unified commitment to ending galamsey and restoring Ghana’s waterbodies, forest reserves, and environmental heritage for prosperity.”

The GCAG, a broad coalition of media, organised labour, religious groups and youth organisations, academia, civil society, traditional leaders, and business bodies, described the pact as a “call to action for all aspirants to embody the spirit of responsibility and national interest.” The group believes the pact will set a new standard of accountability for presidential candidates and inspire collective action.

Kenneth Ashigbey, the  Convenor of GCAC, said that this initiative would create a legacy for future generations: “The gravity of these implications cannot be overstated,” the statement read, urging candidates to demonstrate leadership in combating illegal mining.

The coalition has also called on media organisations to attend a press conference on 5 December 2024, where the names of candidates who sign the pact will be announced.

The release warned against the failure of candiadtes to sign the pact, saying, “Failure to sign this pact could mean perpetuating the environmental crisis and dire consequences for our nation.”

GCAG added that addressing galamsey requires a unified front involving political leaders, civil society and local communities. “Each one of us has a role to play in this collective effort.”

The coalition further reiterated its commitment to harmonising advocacy and social action, stating that effective solutions could only be achieved through firm unity. It noted, “We firmly believe that this initiative will shape a new social contract with the people of Ghana.”

The GCAG’s efforts are in line with Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, which defines mining activities without parliamentary approval as illegal. By urging presidential candidates to take a stand.

The coalition hopes to combat illegal mining practices and ensure sustainable resource management for generations to come.

Read full statement below

Reporting by Abigail Teye in Accra

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