The Ghanaian community in the United Kingdom (UK) has rallied behind their compatriots in Ghana, participating in a surge of anti-galamsey demonstrations to voice their opposition to the devastating effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment.
The UK protests sparked by a similar one held in Ghana for 3-days highlight the global concern for the environmental degradation, health risks, and economic consequences caused by illegal mining in the African country.
The demonstration took place in front of the Ghana High Commission in London, where participants drew attention of the Akufo-Addo government to the pressing issue of galamsey.
The protest attracted a diverse group of attendees, including students, professionals, and community leaders, all united in their commitment to the cause.
This coalition highlights the widespread concern among Ghanaians, both at home and abroad, regarding the ongoing crisis surrounding illegal mining.
Participants held placards featuring powerful messages such as “Blood, Gold, Greed!,” “Water No Bi Politics,” and “Stop Illegal Mining Now!”
These slogans underscored the urgent call for action against galamsey, emphasising the need for immediate measures to protect Ghana’s natural resources and promote sustainable practices.
Ghanaian Workers Threaten Government
The protests come at a time Ghanaian workers have threatened to embark on a strike on October 11 to force President Nana Akufo-Addo to halt all forms of small scale mining in the country.
The Ghana federation of Labour (GFL), which is part of the country’s largest workers union –Organised Labour–has indicated that their impending strike action against the rampant illegal mining in the country remains unchanged despite the Government’s assurance that the menace will be tackled.
They insist directive is in connection with the government’s failure to address critical concerns regarding illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in forest reserves across the country.
The threats forced President Akufo-Addo to meet the leaders of Organised Labour on Thursday, October 4, 2024, and appealed to them to suspend the strike.
He assured the workers group that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government is dedicated to protecting the environment while pursuing sustainable mining practices.
But Organised Labour insist its intended industrial action will not be suspended until the government acts.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
