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Ghanaians have been urged by the United Nations (UN) to unite in the battle against illicit mining, which is seriously harming the country’s economy, ecology, and social fabric.
This appeal for togetherness follows on from the continuing demonstrations against galamsey, or illegal mining, which have generated a great deal of popular outrage.
The UN emphasized in a statement signed by Charles Abani, the organization’s resident coordinator for Ghana, the dire ramifications of uncontrolled mining, which not only harm Ghana but also have an impact on the whole West African geographical area.
“Illegal and unregulated mining has devastating economic, social, and environmental consequences,” the statement noted.
It continued: “It exacerbates poverty, damages livelihoods, pollutes the environment, negatively impacts health and water, disrupts peace, and fuels illicit financial flows.”
Mr. Abani also emphasised the importance of maintaining peace during demonstrations, urging protesters to act responsibly and lawfully, while calling on the police to uphold professionalism in maintaining public order.
“We call on all protesters to maintain a peaceful and responsible approach and on the police to maintain professionalism in protecting law and order while upholding human and civil rights,” the emphasised.
The UN further stressed the need for cooperation among all sectors of Ghanaian society to effectively tackle the illegal mining crisis.
“We call on all leaders in Ghana government, national institutions, political parties, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, the private sector, and all citizens—across all opinion spectrums to work together to address this challenge. Ghana must succeed,” the statement urged.
Through its #PactfortheFuture program, which emphasizes climate action, environmental conservation, and building a better future for future generations, it also reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible measures.
“The UN in Ghana supports all actions in line with the #PactfortheFuture—including sustainability, climate action, the environment, and pollution—that secure a peaceful, brighter future for people, the planet, and generations yet unborn. This is our collective ambition,” the statement added.
Read the full statement below:
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
