“We are intentionally destroying our environment, including Lands and Water Bodies” – Ohene Anochie’s Report on Galamsey Exposes Grim Reality

A hard-hitting report authored by AMN News Agency’s reporter, Ohene Anochie has revealed the alarming extent of environmental destruction caused by illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana. The report, titled “Destruction by Design: The Reality of Galamsey in Ghana”, claims that the devastation of the country’s lands and water bodies is not accidental but a deliberate outcome of greed and negligence at various levels of society.

In the comprehensive report, Anochie documents widespread environmental damage across the regions hardest hit by galamsey activities, including the Western, Ashanti, and Eastern regions. He provides photographic evidence of polluted rivers, abandoned mining pits, and ravaged farmlands, painting a grim picture of the long-term impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s ecosystems.

“We are intentionally destroying our environment, including lands and water bodies, in the name of illegal mining. This is a man-made disaster, and if we don’t act soon, the consequences will be catastrophic,” Anochie warned in his report.

The investigative piece highlights the devastating toll on water bodies, including the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers, which have been contaminated by toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide used by illegal miners. The pollution has rendered the rivers unfit for drinking, irrigation, or fishing, severely affecting the livelihoods of communities dependent on these water sources.

Anochie’s report also notes that Ghana’s farmlands are being destroyed at an alarming rate, with large tracts of fertile soil being dug up for illegal mining operations. Once rich agricultural lands are now barren, leading to food insecurity and loss of income for farmers in affected areas.

In addition to environmental destruction, the report highlights the social and economic consequences of galamsey. Anochie documents the displacement of entire communities, with residents being forced to leave their ancestral lands due to mining operations. He also sheds light on the increasing conflicts between locals and illegal miners, some of whom are believed to be backed by powerful individuals and politicians.

A key finding in the report is the role of corruption in enabling the illegal mining industry. Anochie alleges that many galamsey operators are able to carry out their activities with impunity due to the complicity of local authorities and government officials, some of whom are accused of taking bribes to allow mining operations to continue unchecked.

“There is no way illegal mining of this magnitude could go on without the knowledge and approval of those in authority. Corruption is fueling this destruction, and until we address this, we are fighting a losing battle,” Anochie stated.

The report criticizes the government’s efforts to combat galamsey, describing them as inadequate and poorly enforced. While several initiatives, including the establishment of task forces and temporary bans on small-scale mining, have been implemented, Anochie argues that these measures have failed to produce lasting results due to a lack of political will and accountability.

As part of his recommendations, Anochie calls for stricter enforcement of environmental laws, harsher penalties for illegal miners, and increased transparency in the allocation of mining licenses. He also advocates for the empowerment of local communities to monitor and report illegal mining activities.

The report has sparked a wave of reactions from environmentalists, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens. Many have commended Anochie for shedding light on the ongoing crisis and called on the government to take immediate action.

Environmental activist Tuffour Justice, who reviewed the report, said, “Ohene Anochie’s work is a wake-up call for all of us. The destruction is real, and it is happening before our eyes. We need to prioritize our environment and hold those responsible accountable.”

Meanwhile, political analysts have suggested that the report could increase pressure on the government to adopt more comprehensive measures in tackling illegal mining, especially as the 2024 general elections approach. With public outcry growing over the state of the environment, there are calls for stronger leadership and swift action to end the illegal activities that continue to threaten the country’s future.

Anochie concluded his report with a stark warning: “The cost of inaction is too high. If we continue to allow this destruction, we will not only lose our lands and water bodies, but we will also lose the soul of this nation.”

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Kumasi.