The United Nations in Ghana has called for calm and restraint as protests against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey continue to sweep across the country.
In a statement issued by Charles Abani, the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, the international body acknowledged the devastating economic, social, and environmental toll illegal mining is taking on communities across the country.
“We have seen this across West Africa, and Ghana is no exception. Among other things, it exacerbates poverty, damages livelihoods, pollutes the environment, negatively impacts health and water, disrupts peace, and fuels illicit financial flows”
As the protests continue to gain momentum, the UN urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and called on the police to maintain law and order while respecting human and civil rights.
The statement further emphasized the need for a collaborative effort involving government, traditional and religious leaders, political parties, and civil society to tackle the issue of illegal mining.
The UN in Ghana threw its weight behind sustainable measures to protect the environment and safeguard the future of the country, aligning its position with global efforts to combat climate change and pollution.
“We must work together to secure a peaceful and brighter future for people, the planet, and generations yet unborn. This is our collective ambition”
The call for calm comes at a time when illegal mining activities have severely impacted Ghana’s water bodies and forests, sparking widespread protests and strikes in the country.
Find the statement below
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Story by: Cindy Selasi Humade | univers.ug.edu.gh
