A three-day protest aimed at combating illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” has begun in Ghana’s capital, Accra.

The demonstration, organized by the group Concerned Citizens against Galamsey, seeks to raise awareness about the severe damage illegal mining has inflicted on the country’s water bodies, farmlands, and forests.

The protest kicked off on Thursday, 3rd October, as scores of Ghanaians gathered at Okponglo, near the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, to march through the streets of Accra. The demonstration will continue until Saturday, 5th October, with protesters demanding urgent action from the government to halt galamsey operations.

Marchers will follow a route that passes several key landmarks, including the Okponglo Traffic Light, Shiashie, the Airport Traffic Light, Ridge Hospital, Parliament House, and will conclude at the Accra Sports Stadium car park. The Ghana Police Service has assured the public of its readiness to ensure security throughout the protest, pledging to maintain peace and order.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, 2nd October, the police outlined the official routes for the peaceful demonstration, emphasizing the need for participants to adhere to the Public Order Act. They warned that any disruptions or unlawful actions would result in consequences.

“After engaging with the organisers, the agreed routes for the demonstration shall begin from Okponglo, near the University of Ghana Sports Stadium,” the police statement said, adding that protesters are expected to follow directives to ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles.

This latest demonstration follows a recent protest led by the Democracy Hub, which ended in clashes with law enforcement and the arrest of 54 individuals.

Despite efforts by successive governments, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration, the issue of illegal mining continues to plague the country.

The environmental toll of galamsey is widely documented, with water bodies, farmlands, and forests suffering extensive damage. The contamination of rivers and lakes by heavy metals poses significant health risks to communities, with experts warning of long-term effects such as birth defects and other severe health conditions.

The Ghana Water Company has also struggled to supply clean drinking water due to the high levels of pollution in the country’s water sources.

Organisers of the protest hope that this large-scale demonstration will push the government to take stronger measures to end illegal mining operations, which are increasingly threatening the health and livelihoods of many Ghanaians. The police have reiterated their commitment to upholding the right to peaceful protest, provided it does not disrupt public order.

The three-day protest represents a growing outcry from the public, demanding concrete action to protect Ghana’s natural resources and safeguard the future of its people.

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