We're already on a path to failure - A Rocha Ghana criticises galamsey fight

A Rocha Ghana, an environmental advocacy group, has criticized the government's efforts against illegal mining. They warn that the fight against "galamsey" is failing under the new administration.

The group believes another four years of failure is likely unless citizens support the cause. A Rocha Ghana has condemned past governments for ineffective strategies. They claim the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government offers excuses instead of solutions.

The group argues that deporting foreigners involved in galamsey does not address root causes. They emphasize that this approach fails to tackle the growing illegal mining issue.

In partnership with King’s College London, A Rocha Ghana held a dialogue in Kumasi. This event aimed to find solutions for the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining. It included traditional leaders, district assembly representatives, civil society organizations, and media members.

Participants expressed deep concern over irresponsible mining's destruction of Ghana’s environment. Illegal mining affects more than 13 out of 16 regions in Ghana despite previous government efforts.

Daryl Bosu, A Rocha Ghana's Deputy National Director, discussed past failures in combating galamsey. He noted a "vicious cycle" where progress is often reversed.

"The previous government tried its best but achieved little," Mr. Bosu said. "Now we have a new government on a path to failure." He warned that without citizen involvement, they risk wasting another four years.

He mentioned initiatives like Galamstop and Operation Vanguard but stated they yielded no results. The government has chosen not to prosecute foreign nationals involved in illegal mining; instead, they are being deported.

A Rocha Ghana raised concerns about selective law enforcement favoring wealthy individuals behind major illegal operations. “Deportation is not punishment,” Mr. Bosu stated.

He argued that local offenders serve prison sentences while foreigners profit from their crimes without accountability. “The law must apply equally to all,” he insisted.

Mr. Bosu highlighted powerful financial interests fueling the galamsey crisis, many involving foreign nationals. He believes bending laws for these individuals shows a lack of commitment to solving the problem.

The multi-stakeholder engagement aims to find agricultural and policy-based solutions through collaboration among all parties involved. Dr. Clement Sefah Nyarko from King’s College London advocated for a process-based approach involving all stakeholders in mining.

This method would address crises while benefiting affected communities, he argued. “Mining contributes a third of our GDP; we must get it right,” Dr. Nyarko emphasized.

He called for stakeholders to take ownership of processes that will ultimately benefit both communities and the mining sector itself.