Report By: Ishmael Barfi
In Ghana, the Youth in Natural Resources and Environmental Governance (Youth-NREG) Platform is sounding the alarm about the devastating impact of irresponsible and illegal mining activities, also known as “galamsey,” on the country’s forest reserves, agricultural lands, and water bodies.
According to Youth-NREG, some 34 forest reserves and four major rivers have already been severely damaged, leading to a loss of biodiversity, ecosystem services, and livelihoods ¹ ².
Therefore the Youth-NREG is calling on the Government of Ghana to take immediate action to stop this environmental destruction. They’re urging the government to enforce existing laws, hold perpetrators accountable, and restore damaged ecosystems.
In a press release issued and signed by Justina Amoah, Focal Point of the Youth-NREG Platform, the following are their Demands for Change:
– Stop Illegal Mining: Immediately halt all illegal mining activities.
– Suspend Legal Mining: Temporarily suspend legal mining to review and enforce policies.
– Cancel Contracts: Cancel prospective mining contracts and licenses.
– Hold Perpetrators Accountable: Surcharge companies and individuals responsible for environmental damage.
– Budgetary Support: Allocate national budget funds to support District or Municipal Assemblies in fighting galamsey.
– Repeal Harmful Laws: Repeal LI2462, which is destructive to the environment.
– Collaborate and Monitor: Work with community leaders, media, and civil society organizations to improve surveillance and enforcement.
– Alternative Livelihoods: Present a blueprint for alternative livelihoods for young people involved in illegal mining.
The Youth-NREG Platform emphasizes that irresponsible mining is not only an environmental issue but also a matter of injustice, violating the right to a clean environment and good health for present and future generations. They’re committed to working with stakeholders to protect Ghana’s environment and promote sustainable development.
As Justina Amoah, Focal Point of Youth-NREG Platform, puts it, “Our survival as humans depends on how well we manage the environment.” The time for action is now, and Ghanaian youth are being called upon to support and contribute to interventions that will restore and protect the ecosystem.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
