Galamsey is eroding Ghana’s food security as farmers lose lands — GEM warns

Illegal mining in Ghana is threatening the country's food security by eroding the agricultural lands on which farming communities once thrived, according to the Ghana Youth Environmental Movement (GEM). The environmental advocacy group warns that the loss of farmland, particularly in regions like Asiakwa in the Eastern Region, could lead to long-term food shortages.

Glorious Emmanuella Appiah, GEM's national coordinator, explained that the expansion of illegal mining operations has disrupted local food production, forcing some residents to purchase crops from markets instead of growing them themselves. Ms Appiah noted that young people are selling their farmlands to join the lucrative but illegal galamsey business, contributing to the weakening of the agricultural base in affected communities.

This shift has also led to increased food prices, as traders exploit the financial resources of illegal miners. GEM argues that the impact of galamsey extends beyond environmental degradation, affecting livelihoods, local economies, and the communities' ability to sustain themselves. To address this issue, GEM advocates for alternative livelihood opportunities such as mushroom farming, snail farming, beekeeping, and regenerative agriculture, which require minimal investment and can provide income while reducing pressure on natural resources.

Ms Appiah emphasized that tackling illegal mining requires offering viable economic alternatives to young people, rather than relying solely on awareness campaigns. She called for increased investment in livelihood support programs to help communities abandon illegal mining and safeguard Ghana's environment and agricultural systems, which are crucial for national food security.