Ghana Bar Association demands tougher action to end galamsey menace

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has strongly condemned illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, citing its devastating impact on the country’s environment, water resources, agricultural lands, and public health.

In a statement released on April 26, the GBA urged all branches of government, law enforcement bodies, and key institutions to step up efforts to combat the ongoing crisis urgently. 

The association noted that galamsey continues to wreak havoc on natural ecosystems, polluting water bodies and endangering lives through long-term environmental degradation.

Describing galamsey as a grave national threat, the GBA emphasized the need for a coordinated national response. It called for a sustained and resolute campaign involving all stakeholders to protect Ghana’s dwindling natural resources from further destruction.

The association also placed responsibility on the judiciary, urging it to expedite proceedings on illegal mining cases. According to the GBA, swift and impartial justice is essential to ensuring that perpetrators are punished and to serve as a deterrent.