The Ghana Affiliate of the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) has expressed deep concern over the continued degradation of the environment due to galamsey.

Despite various promises and interventions by the government, the illegal mining activities persist, causing destruction to forests, polluting water bodies, and endangering the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians.

IAIA-Ghana warns that the environmental damage caused by galamsey not only threatens ecosystems but also undermines national security and economic development.

The association has condemned the government’s inadequate response to the alarming rate of deforestation, soil degradation, and mercury contamination of rivers.

They have called on President Akufo-Addo and all Ghanaians to take decisive action to prevent irreversible environmental damage.

Though the government has deployed police and military forces to crack down on illegal mining, IAIA-Ghana has proposed a series of immediate short- and medium-term measures to address the escalating issue.

IAIA-Ghana has also proposed a nationwide moratorium on small-scale mining, both legal and illegal, to allow for a comprehensive environmental assessment and the restoration of damaged areas. During this moratorium, all mining activities in sensitive zones would be halted, with law enforcement agencies ensuring compliance.

Another recommendation is for the government to designate and enforce no-go areas for mining, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like forest reserves and riparian zones.

The association has urged the government to adopt a policy of confiscating proven galamsey sites and transferring them to the state for management by local authorities as well as regulate the equipment used in illegal mining.

IAIA-Ghana has also called for political parties in Ghana to issue formal declarations condemning galamsey and outlining its dangers.

They are committed to assisting the government in developing effective environmental legislation to combat the ongoing destruction and secure a sustainable future for Ghana.