Blood Gold: The true cost of “galamsey”

Galamsey. We have all heard about it. It is happening in the regions, they say. Because it is not occurring right on our doorstep, some of us might think it’s got nothing to do with us. Well, I hate to break it to you, but you’re being affected just as much as those in the mining communities.

The Water Crisis

Let’s talk about water—the very essence of life. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has stated that instead of having 95% of water going to customers, we are only getting 50% to 55%. To even get this 50% or 55%, they have to use more expensive chemicals to achieve.

In the worst-case scenario, Ghana might have to import clean water by 2030. Just imagine that Ghana, our beloved country, is rich in natural resources and imports water!

The Human Cost

While some are lining their pockets with gold, ordinary Ghanaians are paying the price. Farmers are left with no other choice than to use the heavily polluted water, due to illegal small-scale mining, to water their crops for consumption, leading to a rise in illnesses such as cancer and kidney failure. More disturbingly, women are giving birth to children with missing limbs and mental defects. This is not just a statistic; these are our brothers and sisters, our future generation.

Beyond Politics

Let’s face it—it is high time we left politics out of this issue. The situation has deteriorated to the point where organised labour, University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Asantehene, the Christian Council and catholic bishops, farmers, civilians and other unions are putting aside their usual concerns to fight this menace. One has to wonder: have the President and those in power turned a blind eye to the damage galamsey is causing?”

What truly boils the blood of every concerned Ghanaian is the alleged involvement of high-ranking government officials. How can those entrusted with safeguarding our nation’s future be the very ones tearing it apart? It is unbelievable that anyone could be so blinded by greed, so callous to the suffering of their own people, that they would risk countless lives for the glitter of gold. Is the wealth of a few worth the devastation of an entire nation’s water sources, the poisoning of our land? These are not mere accusations; they are desperate questions that demand answers. When will we say ‘enough is enough’ and hold those responsible to account, regardless of their position or power?

Be the Change

Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. We’ve reached a point where we must force change through mass civil action. We need action now, not empty promises. The water we drink, the food we eat, the future of our children—all are at stake. Whether you’re in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, or Takoradi, galamsey affects you.

Educating yourself and others. Support organisations fighting against galamsey. Hold your local representatives accountable. Remember, every action, no matter how small, counts.

Let us not be the generation that stood by and watched as our country was destroyed. Let us be the generation that said, “Enough is enough”. The future of Ghana depends on what we do today.