To combat illegal mining in the country, the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has engaged in industrial action over the past few weeks to urge the government to take decisive action against the issue.

However, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of UTAG has directed its members to suspend the ongoing strike, effective Tuesday, October 29, 2024, as they have developed a pact for all individuals contesting in the 2024 presidential elections.

This was noted in a press release issued on Thursday, October 24, 2024, by the NEC of UTAG.

According to the press release, signed by the National President of UTAG Professor Mamudu A. Akudugu and the National Secretary Dr. Elliasu Mumuni, adherence to the pact is crucial in the fight against the menace of galamsey.

“Additionally, UTAG has developed a Pact for Candidates of the 2024 Presidential Election, which aims to secure their commitment to combating illegal mining activities. Discussions with various stakeholders regarding the signing of this pact have already begun.”

The release also called for the revocation of the Environmental Protection Regulation 2022 (L.I. 2462), emphasising its importance in addressing the issue.

“Beyond our demand for the government to ban mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies, we have also called for the speedy revocation of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation 2022 (L.I. 2462) and urged the government to expand the scope of its task force to include forest reserves in the fight against illegal mining.”

UTAG stated that their actions have significantly contributed to the nationwide fight against galamsey and commended their members for their efforts, reiterating that their advocacy is not politically motivated.

“During the strike, UTAG members across the country demonstrated a deep sense of purpose and commitment. We utilized various platforms to raise awareness of the issue, amplifying the call for decisive action on this critical national challenge. Our non-political advocacy approach was evident through a hashtag campaign, leveraging media platforms for support, and constructively engaging to push our demands.

We extend our profound gratitude to all our members for their unwavering support during the strike and to all stakeholders committed to working with us in the interest of our nation. Let us remain vigilant and united in our pursuit of a sustainable future for Ghana.”

Read the full statement below:

Update on UTAG Strike Action Against Illegal Mining (Galamsey)

UTAG initiated a nationwide strike on the 10th of October 2024, calling on the government to "ban mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farms, and water bodies." The devastating effects of galamsey on our environment particularly on water bodies, forest reserves, agricultural lands, and livelihoods, have been well-documented. As scholars and educators, we believe it is our civic responsibility to ensure that future generations of Ghana inherit a sustainable and healthy environment.

During the strike, UTAG members across the country demonstrated a deep sense of purpose and commitment. We used various platforms to raise awareness of the issue, amplifying the call for decisive action on this critical national challenge. Our non-political advocacy approach was evident through a hashtag campaign, leveraging media platforms for support, and engaging constructively to push our demands.

Beyond our demand for the government to ban mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farms, and water bodies, we also called for the speedy revocation of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation 2022 (L.I. 2462) and requested the government to expand the scope of its task force to include forest reserves in the fight against illegal mining.

Additionally, UTAG developed a Pact for Candidates of the 2024 Presidential Election, which aims to secure their commitment to fighting illegal mining activities. Discussions with various stakeholders regarding the signing of this pact have started.

Our strike action has demonstrated significantly throughout the country our commitment to protecting and sustaining the environment for present and future generations we have won the admiration and confidence of the Ghanaian people in us to always stand up for the welfare of our country

October 24 2024

In light of these. NEC after thorough deliberations, has directed to suspend the strike action effective Tuesday, 29th October 2024 and is seeking members' affirmation or otherwise of this directive.

The National Independent Elections Committee (NIEC) is hereby directed to facilitate this process by the close of Monday. 28th October 2024. to make an immediate decision on this suspension directive

We extend our profound gratitude to all our members for their unweaving support during the strike and to all stakeholders who have committed to working with us in the interest of our nation. Let us all remain vigilant and united in the pursuit of a sustainable future for Ghana

Thank you