The Mass Action for Sustainable Development in Africa (MASDA) has given the government a four-day ultimatum to halt all forms of illegal mining happening in various part of the country.

According to the pressure group, it will mobilise the citizenry to hit the streets should the government fail to address the menace.

“It is our expectation that, government will heed the call to stop all ASM activities immediately to allow for a more sustainable solution to the “galamsey” problem.

“However, if government fails to suspend their activities by 16th September 2024, we shall mobilise the mass of Ghanaians to demand that on the streets. Galamsey poses a threat to our survival, and we demand action now,”

Conversations on galamsey and its dire impact arose after the management of Ghana Water Company Limited in the Central Region announced that there would be challenges with water supply in Cape Coast, Elmina, and surrounding communities.

Read also: GWL warns of severe water supply challenges in Cape Coast and Elmina due to ‘galamsey’ in River Pra

The company revealed that the recent demand-supply gap is due to inadequate raw water received at the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP) caused by galamsey activities.

Environmental groups, civil society organisations, and concerned citizens have since voiced their frustrations over the lack of significant progress in curbing galamsey activities, which have resulted in the contamination of rivers, destruction of farmlands, and loss of livelihoods for many Ghanaians.

Joining the calls, MASDA decried the devastating impact of illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey," on the environment.

It expressed concern over the destruction of forests and water bodies, which has hindered the country's climate change mitigation efforts and threatened the realisation of other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The situation has become dire so much so that, urgent action is required to save lives and the environment. Government has over the years, instituted measures meant to root out or at the very least, minimise the spread and effects of this menace with varying degrees of success.

"The missing link in all the efforts against “galamsey” has been sincere political will and commitment,” portions of the statement read.