Accra, Oct. 9, GNA- The Climate Communications and Local Governance-Africa (CCLG-Africa) has called for urgent collective action against illegal mining to protect the environment and lives.
The Group, composed of media professionals, environmental experts and local governance practitioners dedicated to the pursuit of issues concerning climate change and the environment, said the menace was a threat to the survival of Ghanaians.
A statement issued by the Group on Tuesday called for a non-partisan approach to tackle the problem immediately.
“Galamsey leads to the contamination of freshwater sources, leading to increased risk of waterborne diseases.
“It also results in deforestation and land degradation of the land surface, affecting farming, especially cocoa production and biodiversity,” the CCLG-Africa said.
The Group called for the swift passage of the Environment Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament.
“This legislation is crucial in regulating illegal mining activities that have ravaged Ghana’s natural resources and threatened the livelihoods of communities,” it said.
CCLG-Africa emphasised the need for Ghana to explore effective methods to organize and regulate artisanal and small-scale mining.
This approach could help create jobs, enhance the livelihoods of small-scale miners, and foster inclusive development within communities.
“Together, we can mitigate the impacts of illegal mining and safeguard Ghana’s environmental heritage for future generations,” it said.
Organised Labour has announced an industrial action starting Thursday, October 10, 2024, to pressure the government to address concerns related to illegal mining, commonly referred to as “Galamsey.”
This decision came after an emergency meeting on October 1, during which the Association expressed dissatisfaction that the government had not responded to their demands by the September 30 deadline.
Consequently, all public and civil servants have been urged to stay home from the designated strike day until their demands are addressed.
GNA