The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has launched a vigorous campaign calling for an immediate nationwide ban on all forms of mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farmland, and rivers.
This bold declaration comes in response to the escalating crisis of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has wreaked havoc on Ghana’s environment and public health.
In a press statement, jointly signed by key figures including UTAG National President, Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu, and presidents of various universities such as Dr. Jerry Opoku-Ansah from the University of Cape Coast and Prof. Ransford Gyampo from the University of Ghana.
The rest are Prof. Eric K. K. Abavare, UTAG President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Dr. Joseph K. Wulifan, President of the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies and Prof. Ofosu E. Antwi, UTAG President of the University of Energy and Natural Resources.
Others include Dr. Gregory Abe-I-Kpeng, UTAG President, CK Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences; Dr. Eric Neebo Wiah, UTAG President, University of Mines and Technology; and Dr. Felix K. Nyande, UTAG President, University of Health and Allied Sciences outlined the urgent need for action against the degradation of natural resources.
UTAG’s position reflects widespread concern about the detrimental impact of illegal mining, which has significantly compromised Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and agricultural landscapes.
According to the statement, numerous studies suggest that if current mining practices continue unabated, Ghana may face a serious water crisis, potentially needing to import potable water within six years.
It stated that adding to this grim scenario, cocoa production, a vital pillar of the national economy has plummeted by 45% in recent years, costing the economy an estimated $2.3 billion annually due to the effects of illegal mining.
The statement drew attention to alarming figures from the Forestry Commission, which revealed that over 2.5 million hectares of forest cover have been irreversibly lost.
Additionally, the Ghana Health Service reported a 35% increase in respiratory diseases in areas afflicted by mining activities, linking these health concerns to hazardous pollutants, including mercury and arsenic, found in local water supplies, soil, and agricultural products.
UTAG condemned previous government-led initiatives aimed at curbing illegal mining, describing them as “failed and corruption-infested militarized battles.”
The Association lamented that these efforts have yet to produce meaningful results, allowing small-scale mining to devolve into a tool for empowerment for only a select few, rather than benefiting the broader Ghanaian populace.
“Have we not already destroyed 50% of what our forefathers left us? The time for action is now,” the statement declared.
UTAG firmly asserts that all forms of small-scale mining must cease immediately to protect the nation’s remaining resources and ensure a sustainable future.
The statement urged Ghanaian to join in advocating for a complete ban on mining activities in forest reserves, farmlands, and rivers.
Moreover, the association announced plans to collaborate with labour unions nationwide to demand accountability and adherence to their proposed measures.
The statement concluded by warning if no action is taken by the end of September 2024, they would resort to nationwide industrial action.
“We shall not waver in our demand for a total ban on galamsey,” stated the UTAG leadership, emphasizing that the stakes are too high for inaction.
As Ghana confronts this pressing crisis, UTAG’s resolute stance underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to protect the nation’s environment and public health from the ravages of illegal mining.
