The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra is currently holding a protest walk against illegal mining, also called galamsey. This event was preceded by a “Service of Preparation” at the Holy Spirit Cathedral.”
The event was attended by Catholics, environmental activists, and members of the public, who were all united in their call to end the devastation caused by galamsey.
Rev. Father Godwin Fiawoyi, SVD, addressed the congregation during the service, urging divine intervention in the struggle against environmental degradation.
He encouraged participants to maintain their commitment to advocating for the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources and the establishment of a sustainable future for the country.
During the protest, demonstrators, including members of the “Crusaders Against Galamsey” group, held placards with messages condemning illegal mining activities.
The dissidents marched in a peaceful manner along designated routes, with the assistance of police officers to guarantee a seamless procession.
Emmanuel Wilson Jr., the chief crusader of the “Crusaders Against Galamsey,” emphasized the necessity of more enduring measures to combat galamsey.
While acknowledging the president’s directive for the military and small-scale miners to resolve the issue, he emphasized that the environment of Ghana could only be effectively protected by a complete cessation of all illegal mining activities.
The protest walk is indicative of the increasing public dissatisfaction with the government’s efforts to prevent illegal mining and underscores the imperative necessity for more decisive action to safeguard the country’s water bodies, forests, and ecosystems.