Ghana’s illegal mining crisis: environmental destruction, clashes, and calls for action
Illegal mining has become a crippling burden on Ghana, wreaking havoc on the nation’s water bodies, land, and even claiming lives. Despite repeated efforts by successive governments, the problem remains unresolved.
It is estimated that over 1.1 million people are engaged in illegal mining across Ghana, with youth unemployment being a key driver. Foreign nationals from Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso, and China are also involved in these activities.
The country’s cocoa industry is under severe threat as illegal mining devastates cocoa farms. As the world’s second-largest cocoa producer - responsible for around 20% of global supply - Ghana is losing vast tracts of farmland to mining operations.
Who were the winners and losers of African democracy in 2024?
Devastating impact
The environmental destruction caused by illegal miners is immense, with major water bodies such as the Pra, Offin, Densu, and Ayensu rivers heavily polluted. These rivers serve as critical water sources for communities, but due to contamination, many water treatment plants have been forced to shut down, as the high turbidity damages machinery.
There are growing concerns over the long-term health effects of mercury used in mining, which could severely impact residents in affected communities.
According to Ghana’s Forestry Commission, an alarming 4,726 hectares of forest land have been destroyed due to illegal mining, affecting 34 of the country’s 288 forest reserves.
Read more on RFI English
Read also:
Traders reeling as fire destroys Ghana's largest clothes market
Ghana steps up efforts to mend regional ties with Sahel alliance appointment
Ghana scraps visas for African passport holders in landmark shift