The United Nations has called on Ghanaians to join forces in the fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, which continues to damage the country’s environment, economy, and social fabric. This appeal comes in response to ongoing public protests against the harmful practice.
In a statement by the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Charles Abani, the UN highlighted the widespread impact of unregulated mining, noting that its negative consequences extend beyond Ghana to affect the entire West African region.
“Illegal and unregulated mining has devastating economic, social, and environmental consequences,” the statement read. “It exacerbates poverty, damages livelihoods, pollutes the environment, harms health and water supplies, disrupts peace, and fuels illicit financial flows.”
Mr. Abani also stressed the importance of peaceful demonstrations, urging protesters to remain calm and follow the law, while calling on the police to act with professionalism in maintaining public order.
“We urge all protesters to maintain a peaceful and responsible approach, and we call on the police to act professionally, ensuring law and order while respecting human and civil rights,” he stated.
The UN called for unity across all sectors of Ghanaian society to tackle the illegal mining crisis. “We urge all leaders in Ghana—government, political parties, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, the private sector, and all citizens—to come together and address this challenge. Ghana must succeed,” Mr. Abani said.
The statement reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly actions through its #PactfortheFuture initiative, which promotes climate action, environmental protection, and a brighter future for future generations.
“The UN in Ghana supports all actions in line with the #PactfortheFuture—focused on sustainability, climate action, and environmental protection—to secure a peaceful, brighter future for people, the planet, and generations to come. This is our collective ambition,” Mr. Abani concluded.
