Illegal small-scale gold mining, known as "galamsey," is wreaking havoc on Ghana's environment and public health, despite government pledges to eliminate the practice. Millions in Ghana are facing dire consequences as illegal mining operations continue to contaminate rivers with toxic chemicals, undermining agriculture and posing health risks.
President Nana Akufo-Addo's administration has struggled to enforce bans on galamsey, leading to calls for immediate action from activists. Research indicates that heavy metals like cyanide and mercury are present in the placentas of pregnant women in mining-affected areas, resulting in birth defects. Investigative journalist Erastus Asare Donkor highlights that nearly every major river in Ghana is severely polluted, with water turbidity levels reaching alarming heights.
The issue is not confined to Ghana; illegal mining is pervasive across Africa, driven by influential political and economic actors. Analysts assert that addressing the problem requires accountability from those in power, as corruption hampers enforcement efforts.
In South Africa, illegal miners, known as "zama zamas," significantly impact the economy, costing the government billions in lost revenue. An Interpol report reveals that vulnerable individuals often fall prey to organized crime in the illegal mining sector, with women and children making up a substantial portion of artisanal miners.
Additionally, a recent report indicates that billions of dollars' worth of gold is smuggled out of Africa each year, with Dubai emerging as a key hub for this illicit trade. The smuggling of African gold has more than doubled in the past decade, raising concerns about the broader implications for global trade and security.