The Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG) has officially announced its decision to join forces with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Catholic Church in a nationwide protest against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
The peaceful demonstration, slated for October 11, 2024, aims to raise awareness and demand urgent action to stop the environmental destruction caused by galamsey activities across the country.
In a statement released on October 7, 2024, GRASAG expressed its concern about the alarming environmental degradation and the socio-economic challenges linked to illegal mining.
The Association highlighted that galamsey is threatening not only the country’s natural resources but also the livelihood and health of Ghanaians.
The demonstration seeks to pressure the government, civil society, and stakeholders to take decisive action to protect Ghana’s lands, water bodies, and farmlands from further devastation.
“As a body representing over 100,000 intellectuals and future leaders, we cannot sit idly by while our environment is being destroyed. The future of Ghana’s environment, economy, and the well-being of its citizens are at stake,” GRASAG’s statement read.
The Association emphasized that students, especially those in universities relying on tap water, are directly affected by the pollution of water bodies caused by galamsey, making this issue a critical concern for the youth.
GRASAG also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible governance and safeguarding the country’s natural resources for future generations.
The Association called on all Ghanaians to join the protest, stressing that collective action is essential to ensure that the government implements effective measures to combat illegal mining.
The peaceful protest is expected to attract a large turnout from various groups and communities across the country.
GRASAG and the Catholic Church are rallying citizens, civil society organizations, and environmental activists to stand together in the fight against galamsey.
The demonstration is a call to protect Ghana’s future by preserving its environment and ensuring sustainable development for all.
Read also:
Galamsey fight: Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, partners to hit the streets on October 11
