Professor Yamoah calls for immediate intervention against Galamsey crisis

Professor Fred Yamoah, a distinguished academic and Research Lead at Buckinghamshire New University in the UK, has called for immediate and decisive action from the Ghanaian government to tackle the ongoing crisis of illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”

His remarks during a discussion on Newsfile on Joy Prime monitored by MyNewsGh.com, resonate deeply amidst a growing national concern over the environmental and social repercussions of this unchecked activity.

Prof. Yamoah’s comments come at a time when negotiations between the government and Organised Labour over mining regulations are ongoing.

He acknowledges the government’s desire for additional time to reach a consensus but questions the implications of further delays. “What would Ghana in your presidency lose if, in the interim, you announce no further concessions and licenses should be approved?” he asked, urging the government to take a more proactive stance.

The professor advocates for the repeal of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which permits mining in forest reserves, a regulation enacted in November 2022.

He argues that temporarily suspending this legislation under a state of emergency is essential until the existing gaps in the mining sector are effectively addressed.

“Galamsey has days and ways to reach a tipping point, and we have no business folding our arms or planning only to attempt to protect our heritage after elections,” he warned, highlighting the urgency of the matter.

Meanwhile, the anti-galamsey demonstration is still ongoing, reflecting a growing public outcry against galamsey which has significantly impacted the environment and local communities.

The demonstrations have been fueled by widespread frustration over the destruction of forests, pollution of water bodies, and the adverse effects on the livelihoods of many Ghanaians, especially those in rural areas.

Activists, environmentalists, and concerned citizens have taken to the streets, demanding immediate government action to curb illegal mining activities and enforce existing laws designed to protect the environment.

They call for stricter regulations on mining operations and the cessation of all galamsey activities that harm the land and water resources. The protests have gained momentum, with participants using various platforms to raise awareness about the environmental devastation caused by these practices.

The post Professor Yamoah calls for immediate intervention against Galamsey crisis appeared first on MyNewsGh.