The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has invited all presidential candidates contesting the 2024 elections to sign a National Pledge Against Illegal and Irresponsible Mining.

The pact, initiated in partnership with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and other civic organizations, aims to demonstrate political commitment to ending galamsey and its devastating impact on the nation’s waterbodies, forests, and public health.

According to the GCAG, the pledge symbolizes a unified stance against one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental crises.

“By signing this pact, presidential candidates will affirm their political will and leadership in combating galamsey, while inspiring collective action to safeguard our environment for future generations,” a statement from the Coalition reads.

The GCAG emphasized that tackling illegal mining requires collaboration between political leaders, civil society, traditional authorities, and local communities.

"Each one of us has a role to play in this collective effort,” the Coalition stated, adding that the pledge would establish a new social contract built on environmental stewardship and accountability.

To ensure transparency, the GCAG has announced a press conference on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the International Press Centre, where they will disclose the list of presidential candidates who have signed the pledge. Media organizations have been urged to cover the event to amplify the initiative’s message.

Full statement below: