The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has threatened to go on strike by the end of September 2024 if the government does not take decisive action against illegal mining (galamsey). UTAG President, Prof Mamudu Akudugu, emphasized the need for a total ban on galamsey due to its devastating environmental impact. In an interview on JoyFM, he acknowledged the strike could disrupt academic activities but stressed that long-term environmental consequences would be worse for students and future generations.
UTAG condemned the government’s current measures to combat galamsey, calling them “failed and corruption-infested.” The association highlighted the destruction of over 2.5 million hectares of forest and an annual economic loss of $2.3 billion. The alarming increase in respiratory diseases in mining areas and the possibility of Ghana importing potable water within six years were also cited.
Prof Akudugu noted that students may even support the strike, as they too are affected by the severe environmental degradation caused by galamsey. UTAG plans to engage the government and other stakeholders to find a solution before resorting to industrial action. The association hopes its demands will raise awareness of the crisis and prompt immediate government action.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) is expected to hold a press conference on the issue, reflecting the broader concern across different sectors of society regarding the detrimental effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and economy.