The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has expressed worry about the rising problem of galamsey, which is damaging water bodies and the environment.

According to the Association, this menace, caused by greedy and careless individuals, has threatened the environment, the survival of farmers, and food security.

PFAG highlights that over the past few years, illegal mining has led to the loss of more than 1.2 million hectares of farmlands.

In a press release signed by the National President, Wepia Awal Addo Adugwala, on September 10, it stated that pollution of water bodies and irrigation systems, has made it difficult to engage in any meaningful and sustainable production.

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“The activities of illegal mining have not only destroyed the viability of our cocoa sector, but also the production of food crops for consumption, industry and export,” a piece of the statement read.

The PFAG also noted that illegal miners have exploited vulnerable farmers, either by coercing them into selling their land or forcibly taking over farmland.

“In areas which are closer to water bodies, farmers are unable to use the water for their production as they have been heavily polluted with poisonous chemicals and have become very turbid. This is in addition to the soils which have been poisoned, compromising the quality of the food crops that we produce.”

In response to these pressing issues, the PFAG has issued a stern warning to the government, explaining the urgent need for decisive action to prevent a looming generational food crisis.

“We are at the verge of a generational food crises, due to the unavailability of farmlands, effects of climate change and the wanton destruction of our water bodies.”

The association calls for an immediate and complete ban on all illegal mining activities across the country.

They urge the government to prioritise the restoration of damaged farmlands and develop a comprehensive strategy to address the destructive impacts of illegal mining.

“We also call on all farmers across the country to support all actions by various groups within their jurisdiction to bring an immediate end to this menace.”