Introduction
Ghana’s large gold reserves, once a symbol of national wealth, are now threatened by an unanticipated source: illegal small-scale mining, locally known as galamsey. But at what cost does this underground industry continue to thrive? While it promises quick profits to some, it has unleashed a wave of environmental destruction that may have far-reaching consequences.
How can a nation rich in natural resources be facing a water crisis? Alarmingly, approximately 60% of Ghana’s freshwater bodies have been contaminated, many beyond recovery, primarily due to unregulated mining activities. These polluted waters now endanger the health of communities that depend on them for drinking, farming, and fishing (Nti et al., 2023).
Moreover, the scars on the land are unmistakable. Galamsey operations have stripped vast areas of forest cover, accelerated deforestation and led to severe soil erosion. What happens when the very ground beneath us loses its ability to support life? As ecosystems collapse, biodiversity suffers, and once-thriving habitats vanish (Awewomom et al., 2024).
Perhaps most concerning is the widespread use of toxic chemicals such as mercury in gold extraction. These substances not only poison aquatic life but also pose short and long-term health risks to local populations because intoxication has reached far surpassing safe limits established by the World Health Organization (Awewomom et al., 2024; hrw.org). Can short-term gain ever justify irreversible damage?
Economically, Ghana is facing significant losses due to unregulated gold extraction, resulting in an annual revenue loss of over $2 billion. Talk about killing two birds with one stone – the encroachment of galamsey activities into cocoa-growing regions has destroyed 20,000 hectares of cocoa farms, undermining Ghana’s cocoa production and global chocolate markets. The social fabric of affected communities is glaring, with increased school dropouts and poverty worsening. Despite government efforts, enforcement remains inconsistent, often hindered by corruption and political interference. (theguardian.com; myjoyonline.com).
The pressing question is: can Ghana afford to look away from the silent devastation staring in its face?
Resources at Risk
Water under siege: Galamsey in Ghana draws grave environmental concerns. The proliferation of such activities asserts that illegal mining has primarily polluted 60 percent of the country’s water bodies, especially in the southwestern regions where it is prevalent, nonetheless, the use of harmful substances like mercury and cyanide in gold extraction processes is often discharged directly into water bodies without treatment (business-humanrights.org). Aside from obviously making it unsafe for household consumption, it alters the aquatic environment, leading to the collapse of food chains and the loss of fish species, which are vital for local communities’ sustenance and economy (Faseyi et al., 2022). Mercury exposure has been associated with neurological and developmental disorders, especially in children, and water quality issues like typhoid and cholera increase due to pathogens (coalitionagainsttyphoid.org). The pollution of water sources has strained the capacity of water treatment facilities. Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) faces increased operational costs due to additional chemicals and processes for treating contaminated water, causing temporary plant shutdowns and disrupting water supply to urban and rural areas (Reuters.com). Agriculture, which relies heavily on clean water for irrigation, suffers as polluted water compromises crop yields and soil quality. This situation threatens food security and the livelihoods of farming communities. Moreover, the decline in fish populations impacts the fishing industry, leading to economic losses and unemployment.
The agricultural fallout: Studies in the Western Regions have documented that mining activities have led to a 15.45% reduction in agricultural land use between 1986 and 2006 (Jnr et al., 2016). This is primarily due to soil erosion, soil compaction, and contamination of water bodies with hazardous chemicals. This pollution affects irrigation systems, water quality, and crops, posing health risks to consumers and affecting the marketability of agricultural produce (Emmanuel, Jerry, & Dzigbodi, 2018). One of such products is cocoa, where these illegal activities have disrupted cocoa farming, directly through land conversion and indirectly when water sources for cultivation have been polluted. The Ghana Cocoa Board reports a decline in cocoa production in areas heavily affected, attributing it to the loss of arable land and environmental degradation (financialtimes.com). This has socioeconomic implications, as farmers are forced to lease their lands to miners, leading to food insecurity, livelihood loss, and increased poverty. Illegal mining activities disrupt community structures, cause social vices, health issues, and environmental degradation. This situation further exacerbates economic challenges faced by communities in fishing and livestock rearing.
The silent burden- healthcare costs: Chronic mercury exposure from galamsey operations is linked to neurological disorders, kidney damage, and developmental defects in children, while unregulated activities result in significant air pollution, respiratory ailments, and skin rashes (Faseyi et al., 2022; Ofori et al., 2024). Water quality degradation, on the other hand, exacerbates waterborne diseases like typhoid, cholera, and dysentery (coalitionagainsttyphoid.org). These health crises from mining activities lead to increased healthcare expenditures, with households in mining communities spending more than in non-mining areas (Magambo et al., 2021). Plus, the influx of patients has overwhelmed local healthcare facilities, hampered essential services, and diverted attention from other health needs. A systematic review by Arhin et al., 2025 shows that mining pollutants negatively impact reproductive health, leading to increased infertility, miscarriages, and congenital anomalies. Socio-economic disruptions from galamsey activities also contribute to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Lost Tourism, Investment & Ghana’s Global Image: Galamsey has significantly impacted the country’s ecotourism potential, foreign investment prospects, and international image. Deforestation and pollution in areas like the Amansie South District hinder activities like boating, wildlife watching, and cultural tourism, deterring visitors and reducing revenue (Yeboah, 2025). Ghana’s tourism industry has been stained by this mining scandal, leading to environmental and social governance concerns. This has eroded investor confidence and threatened the country’s global reputation as a sustainable development partner (Financial Times). If left unchecked, the persistence of galamsey would not only further erode investor confidence but also cost Ghana billions in lost trade, tourism earnings, and international goodwill.
A challenge to Ghana’s legal institutions: Galamsey has exposed weaknesses in the country’s governance and legal enforcement systems. Despite robust legal frameworks, including the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), and the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994, established guidelines for sustainable mining practices and environmental protection, enforcement is lacking due to underfunding, limited staffing, and political interference (Zimpah, 2024). Initiatives like Operation Vanguard have seen temporary success, while corruption and local political interests contribute to a culture of impunity (ghanaweb.com). Addressing this requires strengthening institutional capacity, tackling corruption, offering economic alternatives, and demonstrating strong political will to prosecute high-level offenders.
What Ghana Can Do: Pathways to Reclaiming the Future
A critical step in combating galamsey is the formalization of small-scale mining operations. By integrating these miners into the legal framework, the government can monitor activities, enforce environmental standards, and collect revenues. Formalization involves simplifying licensing procedures, providing technical training, and ensuring access to legal mining sites. This approach not only curtails illegal activities but also promotes responsible mining practices.
For mining restrictions to be enforced effectively, strong institutions with sufficient funding and independence are required. It is crucial to strengthen the capabilities of regulatory agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Minerals Commission. This entails establishing operational openness, enhancing monitoring systems, and educating staff. Furthermore, protecting these organizations from political meddling can increase their capacity to stop illicit mining.
It is essential to include local populations in the battle against galamsey. Awareness of the negative effects of illicit mining on the environment and human health can be increased via educational initiatives. At the same time, offering alternative forms of income, including aquaculture, sustainable agriculture, and vocational training, can lessen reliance on illicit mining. Participation of the community in decision-making procedures also promotes a feeling of accountability and ownership for environmental preservation.
Technology and data analytics can improve the monitoring and regulation of mining activities, enabling real-time tracking and targeted interventions. Investing in infrastructure and training personnel is crucial. International collaboration and policy coherence are essential for addressing the transnational issue of gold mining, aligning national policies with international standards on environmental protection and human rights. Perhaps, the recent sale of Newmont’s Akyem gold mine to Zijin would be a great start.
Conclusion
Ghana stands at a critical crossroads where the cost of inaction on galamsey could far outweigh any short-term economic gain. The environmental, social, and economic consequences are already unraveling the fabric of communities, undermining national development, and tarnishing the country’s global reputation. Urgent, sustained, and inclusive community interventions are needed—from formalizing small-scale mining to strengthening institutions and empowering communities. By prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term profit, Ghana can reclaim its future and safeguard its natural heritage for future generations.
References
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