In recent months, the issue of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, has reached critical proportions in Ghana, particularly in the Ashanti region.
The environmental degradation, health hazards, and societal conflicts stemming from this illicit practice have prompted urgent calls for reform.
A resonant voice demanding accountability for the damage caused by galamsey comes from a teacher in the community of Manso Nkwanta, who posits that local chiefs, custodians of their communities, must be held accountable for their roles in turning vibrant areas into degraded landscapes.
Galamsey has become a significant issue in Ghana, leading to the destruction of land, waterways, and ecosystems. Once fertile agricultural zones are now pockmarked with deep pits and littered with hazardous waste, ruining livelihoods and leading to health risks for local populations.
This crisis is particularly acute in the Ashanti region, a key site for both legal and illegal mining activities.
Local communities, reliant on agriculture and natural resources, have felt the brunt of this devastation. As the teacher from Manso Nkwanta pointed out, the chiefs, who traditionally serve as leaders and protectors of their communities, have often turned a blind eye or even facilitated the illegal mining operations.
This betrayal of trust arises from the lure of quick financial gain, which has led to a loss of faith in local leadership
The teacher’s statement highlights a crucial point: chiefs whose communities have been transformed into galamsey zones must face the law. This call for accountability is not only about punishing those who have violated laws but also about restoring integrity in governance.
The expectation that chiefs prioritize the long-term health and well-being of their communities over immediate economic benefits must be reinforced.
To effectively combat galamsey and its associated impacts, a comprehensive approach is required. This includes:
Legal Accountability: Chiefs found complicit in facilitating illegal mining activities should be subjected to legal scrutiny.
The enforcement of existing laws must be stringent, ensuring that leaders cannot escape responsibility for their actions.
Community Engagement: It is essential to involve local communities in decision-making processes, empowering them to protect their environment and advocate for alternative livelihoods.
This can create a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the land.
Alternative Livelihood Programs: The government and NGOs must invest in programs that provide residents with sustainable employment alternatives to mining.
Training in eco-friendly agriculture, tourism, or artisanal crafts can help diversify income sources, among others.
The statement from the teacher in Manso Nkwanta serves as a wake-up call to the broader society about the necessity for accountability in leadership, especially in regions grappling with the dire consequences of galamsey.
As Ghana navigates this challenging terrain, addressing the shortcomings of traditional leadership is crucial for shaping a sustainable future.
Editor’s note: Picture attached to the post has nothing to do with any chief seen above.it only reminds the public about the roles expected by chiefs on how the country can combat the illegal miners in the communities.
