WACAM, CEPIL, and CEIA Call for Urgent Action on Devastating Impact of Surface Mining in Ghana


Wacam, the Centre for Public Interest Law (CEPIL), and the Centre for Environmental Impact Analysis (CEIA) have released a joint statement highlighting the devastating effects of surface mining operations in Ghana. Over the past two decades, these advocacy groups have worked in over 120 mining-affected communities, fighting to protect residents and the environment from the destructive impacts of mining.


The statement addresses a wide range of issues faced by communities in mining areas, such as brutalization by security forces, pollution of rivers with cyanide, economic displacement, and unlawful arrests. The organizations emphasize that large-scale surface mining, particularly during what is known as the "Third Jungle Boom," has led to extensive destruction of lands belonging to indigenous farming communities. This has transformed many former farmers into small-scale miners, contributing to the galamsey crisis.


One key concern is the weak regulatory framework that has allowed mining companies to act irresponsibly with little accountability. The Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), in particular, is singled out as ineffective in safeguarding the environment and ensuring fair compensation for affected communities. Wacam, CEPIL, and CEIA criticize the Act’s provisions, especially those relating to water rights, which they argue strip rivers of their protection in the event of surface mining operations.


The statement also outlines the lack of political will to address the issue, noting that mining companies and galamsey operations are often politically connected, making it difficult for governments to take decisive action. Furthermore, the pollution of rivers, destruction of cocoa farms, and mining in forest reserves have all contributed to a significant loss of livelihood and environmental degradation.


To combat these issues, Wacam, CEPIL, and CEIA are advocating for a non-partisan approach to fighting illegal mining, a moratorium on new mining licenses, and joint citizen mass actions involving the clergy, market women, traditional authorities, and the media. They call for a comprehensive review of mining laws to strengthen environmental protections and ensure accountability.

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