The three-day anti-galamsey protest in Accra culminated in an emotional vigil on October 5, 2024, as calls for the release of detained protesters under the #FreeTheCitizens movement intensified.
The demonstration, which began with hundreds of participants marching to highlight the destructive impact of illegal mining (galamsey) on Ghana’s environment, gained widespread attention for its passionate demands.
Protesters, mostly dressed in red and black to symbolize mourning and anger, carried placards with messages like “We need clean water” and “Destroy galamsey, not our future,” emphasizing the environmental and health hazards posed by galamsey, especially on water resources and unborn children.
They also criticized the government for the arrests of 53 activists during an earlier protest and demanded their immediate release, questioning why peaceful demonstrators were detained while illegal miners went unpunished.
The protest culminated in a vigil near the Accra Sports Stadium, where a documentary on the harmful effects of galamsey was screened.
Despite heavy rain, the protesters stayed on, amplifying their message through song and speeches. The movement, supported by widespread social media campaigns, underscored the urgency of addressing illegal mining and ensuring the release of those fighting for a cleaner environment.
