GRPS to demonstrate on Monday over galamsey

The Generational Rights Protection Society (GRPS) is a civil society group. They advocate for environmental justice. The GRPS is calling on the Mahama-led government to declare a state of emergency. This request comes in response to the worsening illegal mining crisis.

At a press briefing, Mr. Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah spoke for the group. He is a media practitioner and an outspoken advocate. He criticized the government's current strategies against illegal mining, known as galamsey.

Mr. Mensah argued that current tactics are ineffective. These include seizing and burning excavators, which did not work before. “These measures have already proven futile under the past government,” he stated.

He warned that history is repeating itself with worse consequences now. The environment is suffering, and water bodies are deteriorating.

The GRPS urges the government to take bold actions. They want comprehensive measures to protect Ghana’s natural resources and future livelihoods.

To raise awareness, the group has planned a public demonstration for Monday. They invite all Ghanaians, especially youth, to join them in demanding action against illegal mining.

“This is a national emergency,” Mr. Mensah emphasized. “If we fail to act now, we risk losing our rivers, forests, and agricultural lands forever.”

The upcoming protest aims to attract significant public attention. The issue of galamsey affects water pollution, food security, and public health in Ghana.