The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has announced plans to organize a “Red Band” protest against illegal mining in solidarity with Organised Labour’s indefinite strike, set to begin on October 10, 2024.
Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of the Coalition, revealed this during an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle on Wednesday, October 9.
He explained that the protest aims to amplify the calls for the government to address the galamsey menace, following its failure to meet demands to impose a ban on illegal mining.
Participants of the protest are encouraged to show their support by wearing red bands on their arms or heads and tying red bands on cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and other vehicles.
They are also urged to share photos and videos of their participation on social media with the hashtags #StopGalamseynow, #SaveOurLand, and #SaveOurFuture.
In a public notice, the Coalition called on Ghanaians to continue the protest indefinitely until the government takes decisive actions to halt illegal mining and the environmental devastation it causes.
The symbolic use of red serves as a powerful reminder of the collective frustration felt by Ghanaians who are witnessing the ongoing degradation of their land and natural resources.
In a rallying cry to the nation, the Coalition has urged all Ghanaians to partake in the protest indefinitely, using social media platforms to share their experiences and further raise awareness with hashtags such as #StopGalamseynow, #SaveOurLand, and #SaveOurFuture.
As the date approaches, the Coalition hopes to mobilize a major support, compelling the government to take swift and effective action to combat the illegal mining operations that is already threatening the environment and the future of the country.
