Illegal and irresponsible mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, are significantly undermining Ghana’s progress toward achieving several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In an interview with the High Street Journal, Kwadwo Kyei Yamoah, Executive Director of HELP Foundation Africa and Convener of the SDG 14 CSOs Platform, highlighted the economic, environmental, and social consequences of galamsey on the country’s sustainable development efforts.
During the interview, Mr. Yamoah emphasized that galamsey is threatening multiple SDGs, including SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
The destruction of farmlands, particularly cocoa farms, has significantly impacted farmers’ incomes, plunging them into deeper poverty. Furthermore, galamsey is contributing to food insecurity by reducing farmland and damaging soil fertility, thus affecting food systems that rely on these resources.
The health implications of galamsey are equally alarming, posing a risk to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). According to Mr. Yamoah, toxins released through illegal mining are leading to preventable deaths, maternal mortality, and other serious health complications.
The Ghana Medical Association has also confirmed the rising health risks linked to air, water, and land pollution caused by galamsey activities. SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) is also under threat as galamsey continues to contaminate water bodies. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has reported increased turbidity in rivers, which complicates water treatment processes and raises operational costs, potentially affecting water access and affordability.
In relation to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Mr. Yamoah noted that illegal mining workers, including women and children, are often exposed to dangerous working conditions and mercury toxicity.
Child labor remains a critical concern in these mining areas, undermining labor rights and economic growth. The environmental damage caused by galamsey is hindering efforts to meet SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Widespread deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution have significantly reduced Ghana’s ability to sequester carbon and preserve biodiversity.
Aquatic ecosystems are also suffering due to pollutants from mining activities, further endangering critical freshwater and marine habitats. Mr. Yamoah called for urgent government action to mitigate the impact of galamsey and safeguard Ghana’s future Immediate revocation of LI 2462 and withdrawal of all licenses granted for mining activities in forest and protected reserves.
Without decisive action, Mr. Yamoah cautioned that Ghana risks not achieving its SDG targets, with long-term consequences for its economy, environment, and public health.
