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The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has officially called on the National House of Chiefs to make clear its position on illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’. This request comes in response to remarks made by Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, who rejected calls for an outright ban on all mining activities, arguing that such a ban could cost Ghana millions of dollars.
In a recent statement, the GCAG, representing a coalition of organizations across 10 sectors, responded to Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II’s comments by urging the House of Chiefs to unequivocally state their stance on the issue of galamsey. The coalition stressed the importance of the National House of Chiefs’ involvement in establishing a coordinated approach to tackle the challenges posed by illegal mining in Ghana.
The GCAG underscored that the House of Chiefs, as custodians of customary resources, plays a vital role in safeguarding these resources from the harmful effects of galamsey. By seeking formal clarification, the coalition aims to ensure that all stakeholders are unified in their efforts to combat the environmental and social damage caused by illegal mining.
In their statement, the coalition expressed disappointment with the House of Chiefs’ perceived silence on the matter and its recent opposition to a mining ban, arguing that such a stance could reinforce the continued destruction of Ghana’s environment.
“We accordingly call on the National House of Chiefs to clarify its position on the specific question of galamsey. As custodians of the customary resources of the various communities, the House has a crucial role to play in protecting these resources from the ravages of illegal mining,” the coalition stated.
The GCAG also emphasized that some chiefs have been complicit in the environmental destruction caused by galamsey, highlighting the need for stronger opposition from traditional authorities. They urged the National House of Chiefs to take a more active role in the fight against illegal mining, warning that their current stance risks placing them “on the wrong side of history.”
The coalition’s call for action concludes with optimism that, with the right measures, positive change is not only possible but inevitable in the fight against galamsey.