The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has called on the National House of Chiefs to clarify its position on illegal mining (galamsey), expressing disappointment in the House’s perceived endorsement of mining activities.
In a press statement released on Monday, September 23, 2024, the Coalition urged the House of Chiefs to take a stronger stand in opposition to the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.
The Coalition expressed concern over a recent statement by the National House of Chiefs, which, according to the group, seems to reject any form of ban on mining, including illegal activities. This stance, they claim, contradicts the House’s constitutional mandate as custodians of the nation’s customary resources.
The Coalition accused some chiefs of being complicit in the devastation caused by illegal mining, particularly in the poisoning of water bodies and destruction of farmlands.
“We are shocked by what appears to be an endorsement of galamsey by the National House of Chiefs,” the Coalition said in the statement. “This is a time when Ghana is fighting for its very survival, and the House’s position could place it on the wrong side of history.”
The Coalition urged the House of Chiefs to make their stance clear, noting that their silence and conflicting statements risk undermining efforts to protect Ghana’s environment.
The group also emphasized that the House has a critical role in safeguarding resources for both present and future generations.
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is made up of various organizations from different sectors of society, including media, labour, religious groups, youth organizations, academia, civil society, professional bodies, traditional leaders, and business groups.
