The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has threatened a nationwide strike if the government fails to take concrete action to address the galamsey menace within the next three months.

Issuing the warning on Monday, July 21, UTAG’s National President, Prof Mamudu Akudugu, said the association is deeply concerned about the continued destruction of Ghana’s environment through illegal mining activities. He stressed that the situation poses a direct threat to the nation’s health, food security, and long-term development.

Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Midday News, Prof Akudugu made it clear that UTAG is prepared to escalate its demands if the Mahama-led administration does not act decisively within the stipulated period.

“We give ourselves three months and see how government reacts to our demands,” he said.

“If we don’t see any tangible action being taken in response, I’m sure we will go back to our members, and they will decide what the next line of action is.”

Environmental Crisis

UTAG has become increasingly vocal about the environmental devastation caused by galamsey, citing the pollution of water bodies, the destruction of forests, and the degradation of farmlands as major concerns.

The association argues that the consequences of illegal mining extend beyond environmental issues, affecting public health, education, and national stability.

“We cannot sit aloof while rivers are destroyed, forests are cleared, and future generations are left with nothing but poisoned lands and polluted waters,” Prof Akudugu emphasised.

• Read also: UTAG charges Mahama to end ‘galamsey’ immediately, threatens strike

Call for Government Action

UTAG is urging President John Dramani Mahama and his administration to act swiftly and decisively to curb the galamsey crisis.

The association believes that the time for rhetoric is over and that only practical, enforceable measures can stop the damage.

The ultimatum is part of UTAG’s broader push for sustainable development and national accountability. The association says its next course of action, potentially including a strike, will be determined after the three-month window if no significant government intervention is seen.

UTAG once embarked on a similar campaign against the previous government on the same matter.