The University of Ghana has launched a new initiative to tackle the growing issue of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which is severely impacting the environment and the socio-economic well-being of the country.

The two-year project, titled Sharing Galamsey Research Findings and Advocacy to Stop Galamsey in Ghana, aims to raise awareness and encourage collaboration to combat this destructive practice.

The project’s principal investigator, Professor Gladys Nyarko Ansah, emphasised the urgency of addressing the national crisis posed by illegal mining.

While acknowledging the government's policy efforts and focus on alternative livelihoods, she stressed the need for a shift in attitudes and behaviours on the ground.

“No matter how many laws are passed, or enforcement teams are deployed, they won’t work if people don’t change their behavior,” she said.

She further explained the project’s approach, saying “We are engaging directly with communities where illegal mining is prevalent. Our goal is to communicate in a way that resonates with them, using local languages, including Pidgin, to break down complex research into simple, relatable messages. This is not just a one-way communication effort.”

Prof Ansah underscored that solving this crisis requires collective action.

“This is a national issue that affects us all. We must work together to find solutions. Everyone has a role to play,” she added.