The devastating impact of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has left so many communities in the country in disarray.
The heart-wrenching sight of vast lands laid to waste is a stark reminder of the damage inflicted by these unchecked operations. With rivers polluted, farmlands destroyed, and forests cleared, the question looms large: Do these communities have a future at all? The youth heavily, engaged openly in galamsey operations in many parts of the country.
A Grim Look for Future Generations
The implications of this devastation extend far beyond the immediate environmental damage. In galamsey-ravaged areas, children grow up surrounded by the consequences of this unregulated mining. The prospects for their future are bleak; the lands that once provided food and water are now barren and toxic. The lack of sustainable resources casts a shadow over their potential for growth and development. Will these children inherit a community where they can thrive, or are they doomed to a life of struggle in an environment that offers little hope?
Many, who rose against the wrongs of these operations once in the capital city, Accra, were seen as threats to the peace of the country. Some were arrested and detained. A government that had once put its presidency on the line to fight against the actions of these galamsey operators had nothing to say about these arrests.
Environmental and Generational Consequences
The environmental damage is catastrophic. Rivers that once served as lifelines for entire villages are now filled with toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide. Fish, a major source of protein, have no place in these waters, impacting food security. The land, scarred with deep craters and exposed soil, has been rendered infertile. It is not just the present generation that suffers; the scars left on the environment will likely persist for decades, affecting the livelihoods of future generations.
The generational future of these communities is uncertain. With their natural resources depleted, the economic backbone of these areas is shattered. The impact of these activities is severely impacting the livelihoods of these communities. This vicious cycle poses a serious threat to the long-term sustainability of these communities.
A Disconnect Between Urban and Rural Realities
For those living in the cities, the extent of the damage caused by galamsey might seem distant or abstract. However, the harsh reality is that these rural communities are on the brink of collapse. The destruction is evident even to the casual observer, with mining operations continuing openly on both sides of major roads, especially, Manso Abore and Datano, Manso Watreso defying regulations and calls for enforcement. The Oda River is visibly ruined. The disconnect between urban dwellers and the plight of these mining communities is stark; many are unaware of how dire the situation has become.
Realities of Rural Areas
Poor road networks and poor internet connection are not uncommon in every rural area in Ghana. Most rural communities suffer from electricity generation.
What Will It Take to Change?
It is clear that the current approach to handling illegal mining is not working. Despite government interventions and crackdowns, galamsey activities persist. The brazen manner in which these operations continue indicates a failure in enforcement and a lack of political will, as well as traditional authorities’ will to bring about meaningful change. The question remains: what will it take for society to change its ways?
Will it require stricter laws, community engagement, or perhaps a complete overhaul of the economic incentives driving these activities? Until there is a coordinated effort involving the government, local communities, and other stakeholders, the cycle of destruction is likely to continue, leaving a trail of devastation that may be impossible to reverse.
The time to act is NOW!!
Inspiration
A tour with the National Chairman for the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, in his Ashanti regional campaign inspired this piece of art.
His campaign took us to several rural communities in the Ashanti region where he interacted with traditional authorities, listening to their concerns and responding to them.
He however urged members in the communities to rally behind the NDC to victory in the December polls and bring to life, the party’s policies for a better Ghana.
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