Galamsey: Dissecting Organized Labour’s stance and the People of Jema

By Daniel Ostin, Tutor, Enchi College of Education, Western Region

In recent years, galamsey has become one of the most pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges facing Ghana.

The destructive impacts of illegal mining on our environment, especially on water bodies, farmlands and forest reserves are well documented.

A new and significant voice is now joining the chorus of protests.

The leadership of organized labour has announced their intention to go on strike if the government does not take concrete and immediate steps to stop illegal mining activities in the country by the 10th of October, 2024.

This announcement is not only a reflection of the gravity of the situation, but also a signal that illegal mining is no longer just a rural or environmental issue, but a national crisis, with potential repercussions for all sectors of society.

The illegal mining of gold popularly known as galamsey, has become a critical issue as it has a devastating effect on the Rivers, such as the Ankobra and Pra, which serve as sources of drinking water, have turned brown and toxic from pollution caused by chemicals used in mining.

Forests, which are essential to biodiversity and climate regulation, are being ravaged.

However, the Chiefs and people of Jema in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North region of Ghana, led by Reverend Joseph Kwame Blay have shown the way, that they will not entertain galamsey on their land, despite the economic benefits, but rather, prefer to reserve the land for future generations.

The Jema example is a case study for all galamsey sites in the country to emulate. Beyond environmental destruction, illegal mining also brings social harm.

Communities near galamsey sites are plagued by increased crime, conflicts over land ownership and the erosion of traditional values and other devastating consequences.

Let us not forget the impact these galamsey activities have on the economy. One may ask, why is Organized Labour Taking a Stand on this issue? At a glance, this may seem out of their usual scope, as labour unions typically focus on workers’ rights, wages and workplace conditions.

The leadership of organized labour has clearly articulated the broader implications of galamsey for the country’s future, arguing that the destruction of Ghana’s environment ultimately undermines the very survival of the people and the economy. Many of the workers’ organized labour lives in communities directly affected by galamsey. Teachers, health workers and civil servants are seeing and feeling the negative impacts illegal mining is having on education, healthcare and public services.

With rivers being polluted, potable water is becoming scarce. Public health is at risk from exposure to mercury and other harmful chemicals.

Farmers are losing their lands and children are being pulled out of school to engage in illegal mining activities.

Furthermore, the economic consequences cannot be overstated. Organized labour leaders also argue that if the government does not act decisively, Ghana will be left with a future where jobs in agriculture, tourism and other sectors will shrink because of environmental degradation. This will put more pressure on the already struggling economy and could potentially lead to more labour unrest.

The threat of a nationwide strike by organized labour over galamsey should not be taken lightly. In Ghana, organized labour has proven time and again to be a formidable force.

With hundreds of thousands of members, including teachers, nurses, civil servants, and industrial workers, a strike of this magnitude would have far-reaching consequences.

Schools could be shut down, hospitals could become understaffed and essential services could grind to a halt.

The strike would undoubtedly send a powerful message to the government and the citizenry about the urgency of addressing the galamsey problem.

Organized labour is thus not just calling for a strike out of frustration, they are demanding accountability and concrete action from the government.

They want to see not just words, but visible and effective measures to combat illegal mining. This includes stronger enforcement of existing laws, increased protection of water bodies and holding those involved, whether illegal miners or their powerful backers accountable.

The big question is, how will the government respond to this ultimatum? Over the years, successive governments have launched various initiatives to fight galamsey.

Some are of the view that the government’s efforts have been inconsistent and at times, undermined by corruption, with reports of some officials allegedly being complicit in the very activities they are supposed to be stopping.

Organised Labour’s pronouncement reminds us about the role of civil society in governance and that environmental issues are no longer niche concerns, but mainstream issues that affect every Ghanaian.

This could mark the beginning of a broader movement where workers, students and communities unite to demand environmental justice and the addressing of other concerns. It also highlights the interconnectedness of Ghana’s social, environmental and economic fabric, as illegal mining is not just about gold, but about the future of the country, affecting every sphere or aspect of our being.

A big turning point and a bold statement, that enough is enough, as this could lead to irreversible damage.

As we await the government’s response, it is clear that the battle against galamsey is no longer just the responsibility of environmentalists or local communities, but a national fight and organized labour is ready to lead the charge.

Read More Here