The United Nations has called on Ghanaians to work together to eradicate illegal mining, which continues to wreak havoc on the environment, economy, and social fabric of the country.
This plea comes in the wake of ongoing protests against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has led to widespread public outcry.
In a statement released by the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Charles Abani, the United Nations emphasised the severe consequences of unregulated mining, which extends beyond Ghana and impacts the entire West African region.
“Illegal and unregulated mining has devastating economic, social, and environmental consequences,” the statement read. “It exacerbates poverty, damages livelihoods, pollutes the environment, negatively impacts health and water, disrupts peace, and fuels illicit financial flows.”
Mr Abani further stressed the importance of peaceful demonstrations, urging protesters to remain calm and law-abiding while calling on the police to uphold professionalism in maintaining public order.