Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has publicly addressed the increasing calls for his participation in the #StopGalamseyNow protest, which seeks to combat illegal mining (galamsey) activities that are devastating farmlands across the country.
In a social media post on September 26, 2024, Shatta Wale expressed his discontent with the movement, stating that the efforts of the protesters were ineffective. He criticized the demonstration, accusing participants of engaging in frivolous actions rather than making a tangible impact. “You people don’t know how to stop problems. You go there to play music and swim and do nonsense,” Shatta Wale said.
The artist further argued that the root cause of the problem was beyond the influence of musicians or any individual, insisting that regardless of which political party is in power, the issue of illegal mining would persist. “Any government that comes into power will do you the same thing,” he added, suggesting that protests alone would not bring about the necessary reforms.
Shatta Wale’s remarks come at a time when various celebrities have been called upon to amplify their voices in support of the #StopGalamseyNow campaign, which has gained momentum on social media. The protest also led to the arrest of notable figures like socialite Ama Governor and model Glenn Samm, as demonstrators clashed with authorities at the 37 Military Roundabout in Accra on September 22, 2024. The arrested protesters are currently facing charges, including conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and assault on public officers, as they await further proceedings in an Accra Circuit Court.
The debate surrounding illegal mining and its impact on the environment continues to escalate, with activists calling for stricter government intervention and enforcement of regulations.
