For over four years, the Ghana Environmental Advocacy Group (GEAG) and other civil society organizations (CSOs) have fought a relentless battle to save the nation’s lands, forests, and water bodies from destructive mining practices. Despite these efforts—through petitions, demonstrations, and eye-opening documentaries—our calls for action have been met with apathy, selective enforcement, and a lack of meaningful commitment from the government under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his Vice, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
As we head to the polls on December 7, the stakes are higher than ever. Our natural resources are on the brink of irreversible damage, and the choice we make in this election will determine the future of our environment and generations to come.
The Mining Crisis: A Tale of Unbridled Exploitation
Under the Akufo-Addo administration, the Minerals Commission of Ghana has issued over 2,000 mining licenses, including permits for mining in 37 forest reserves. This has not only increased the scale of environmental degradation but has also directly contributed to the pollution of critical rivers, including Amanzule, Tano, Pra, Offin, Bonsa, Atronsu, Birim, Djimi, Ankobra, and Fia.
These rivers, which serve as lifelines for millions of Ghanaians, are now unfit for use. Communities that once depended on them for drinking water, farming, and fishing now face dire consequences. The destruction of these ecosystems undermines livelihoods, threatens food security, and increases vulnerability to climate change.
The government’s response to this environmental crisis has been disappointing. Rather than taking decisive action, the administration has offered non-committal speeches, half-hearted policies, and sporadic military operations that often fail to address the root causes of illegal mining (galamsey) and environmental exploitation.
The People’s Plea: A Call for Accountability
The GEAG and other advocacy groups have tirelessly highlighted the existential threats posed by this crisis. Heart-wrenching documentaries have showcased the extent of the destruction, while petitions and protests have amplified the voices of concerned citizens. Yet, these efforts have largely fallen on deaf ears.
As the saying goes, “a fish spoils from the head.” The leadership of a country sets the tone for its priorities and values. Under the current administration, Ghana’s environment has been treated as an expendable resource rather than a sacred trust. This neglect reflects a lack of accountability and vision at the highest levels of government.
December 7: An Opportunity for a Fresh Start
On this day, December 7, 2024, we Ghanaians have a rare opportunity to change the course of history. Today’s election is not just a choice between political parties—but rather a referendum on the future of our environment, our communities, and our country.
John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) present an alternative vision for Ghana’s development, one that prioritizes environmental sustainability and the responsible stewardship of natural resources. Under Mahama’s leadership, there is hope for a renewed commitment to protecting Ghana’s forests, rivers, and farmlands from the ravages of unchecked mining and deforestation.
Voting for change is not just about rejecting the failures of the past—it is about embracing a future where Ghana’s development is guided by principles of equity, sustainability, and accountability.
A Call to Action
As citizens, we hold the power to shape our nation’s destiny. This December 7 election is our chance to demand leadership that values the environment as a foundation for national prosperity. By voting for John Dramani Mahama and the NDC, we can take a bold step toward safeguarding our natural heritage and ensuring a sustainable future for all Ghanaians.
Let us rise to this challenge and make our voices heard. The time for change is now. Let us choose leaders who will protect our environment, prioritize the well-being of our people, and uphold the legacy of a green and prosperous Ghana.
Vote for change. Vote for accountability. Vote for John Dramani Mahama and the NDC.
