Thousands Protest in Ghana, Demanding End to Illegal Mining

In a bid to call attention to the devastating effects of illegal mining on the environment and their communities, hundreds of Ghanaians, mostly university students, took to the streets of Accra, Ghana’s capital, to demonstrate against the illegal mining that has been rampant in their country. The protest came just weeks ahead of presidential elections in December.

“If our leaders don’t take action now, future generations will pay the price,” said Delali Asante, a student at the University of Ghana. She joined thousands of her fellow students and activists to press the government to put a stop to the illegal activity. The protesters are determined to stage rallies for the next three days and demanding the release of 54 activists who were arrested and detained for demonstrating against the illegal mining last month.

Illegal mining, particularly affecting Ghana’s major rivers Pra and Birim, which provide drinking water to hundreds of thousands of people, has become a contentious issue. Protesters held signs displaying polluted water, bringing attention to the alarming degradation of the country’s once-thriving rivers.

Asante, echoed Tagoe, saying “we can’t drink gold” and “we can’t grow crops on poisoned land.” Tagoe, leading the protest, reiterated: “We cannot sit back and watch as our rivers and water bodies are polluted with mercury. Illegal mining is destroying our environment and our future.”

Labor unions have also pledged to conduct a nationwide strike, demanding immediate action from authorities.

The issue has significant international implications, given Ghana’s role as a major cocoa producer and gold supplier to the global market.

What are your thoughts on Ghana’s struggle with illegal mining?