Ghana is currently grappling with a severe environmental and social crisis stemming from widespread illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which continues to elicit significant public concern. In response to this escalating national challenge, President John Dramani Mahama has extended an invitation to key civil society organisations (CSOs) for a high-level engagement at the Jubilee House. Scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon, this meeting aims to foster "frank and constructive discussions" between government officials and civil society leaders, leveraging collective expertise to devise lasting solutions to the destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), which is holding a critical meeting this week to determine its next course of action as a three-month ultimatum issued to the government to address illegal mining expires. UTAG's National Executive Council (NEC), through a statement signed by National President Prof. Mamudu Akudugu and National Secretary Prof. Eliasu Mumuni, has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government's perceived slow response. Prof. Akudugu, in an interview, highlighted the dire consequences, stating that water bodies are severely threatened, with some water treatment plants facing closure. He also raised concerns about over two million hectares of arable land affected by galamsey, impacting more than 500,000 farmers and farm households, and the poisoning of staple crops like Kontomire and cassava. UTAG is considering potential industrial action if decisive measures are not promptly implemented, with a decision expected following the day's Congress deliberations, which will be in the interest of both members and the country.

Adding to these concerns, Public Health Fellow at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Kwame Sarpong Asiedu, has strongly advocated for sustained public education to counter the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s food systems and public health. Dr. Asiedu pointed out an “alarming level of ignorance” among Ghanaians, particularly at the community level, regarding the direct link between galamsey activities and food contamination. He cited instances where traders were unaware of crop contamination and highlighted the danger of products containing mercury and cyanide. He called for a coordinated national information campaign, delivered in local dialects, and urged the government to invest heavily in public information agencies to bridge this critical knowledge gap, warning that failure to act would deepen ignorance and exacerbate the crisis, potentially leading to a preference for imported foods due to safety concerns.

The Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has publicly commended UTAG for its principled and steadfast position on combating illegal mining. Speaking at UTAG's 22nd Biennial Congress, he encouraged the union to remain resolute, emphasizing the critical importance of the fight for quality air and water. His remarks reinforce the broader calls for stronger government action to protect Ghana's natural resources and ensure that