In Ghana, the practice of illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” has emerged as a double-edged sword, providing livelihoods for many while simultaneously creating destruction on the environment and public health. Galamsey, derived from the phrase “gather them and sell”, is local Ghanaian jargon that means illegal small-scale mining.
The attractiveness of the lifestyle of gold miners drive thousands of young men into these unregulated operations, often without a proper understanding of the health risks they face. This feature story explores the health impacts of galamsey on individuals and communities within affected regions, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices and health interventions.
The Attraction of Galamsey
For many in rural Ghana, galamsey represents a chance for economic independence. With limited job opportunities and resources, it is not uncommon for men and women to turn to mining for an income.
According to Ghana Priorities Illegal Mining Technical reports, it is estimated that over 1.1 million people are currently engaged in it, with countless more depending on the economic activities surrounding it. David, a 32-year-old father of three, is one such individual.
“There’s no alternative job, if we get jobs we will all quit” he says, indicating that financial factors compel locals to risk their lives.
Health Risks from Exposure
Various health issues surface in communities engaged in galamsey, primarily due to exposure to harmful substances like mercury, cadmium, cyanide and others which are commonly used in extraction processes. Mercury, in particular, poses significant neurological risks.
Dr. Albert Kobina Mensah, a Mercury Expert at the Soil Research Institute explains, “Overtime Mercury exposure can lead to cognitive impairments, vision and hearing problems, and in severe cases, death. Pregnant women exposed to these glean Huber birth to deformed babies.
So children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable.” In communities like Manso and Samreboi, residents are reporting an alarming increase in cases of respiratory diseases and skin infections.
Local clinics are crowded with patients suffering from ailments directly linked to the pollution caused by mining activities. “We see many cases of kids with skin diseases, young men and women with hypertension who do not have any family history of hypertension,” says Dr. Yusif Tijani, a local physician.
“If you ask what has changed in the lives of these people, you can only point at galamsey activities”
Water Contamination
The environmental toll of galamsey is a fuel for health decline, as trees are cut down and water bodies become contaminated. Rivers that once provided safe drinking water in a lot of communities are now full with heavy metals.
According to the Water Resources Commission (WRC), illegal mining, has emerged as a major threat to water resources in Ghana. Rev. Kojo Nkrumah, a farmer recalls the days when farmers relied on the rivers and streams for drinking water and cooking when on their farms.
“Now, we can’t drink from it, we can only water our crops with it,” he laments. “We don’t have any alternatives than to water our crops with the same water, the only alternative is to stop farming.”
The Way Forward
In response to the challenges posed by galamsey, several organizations and individuals are stepping in to educate residents on the health risks and provide alternatives to illegal mining. Organizations like the Voice of America together with the American Embassy and a Team from the Multimedia Group Limited led by Erastus Asare Donkoh are advocating for sustainable mining and creating awareness by embarking on community campaigns and radio and TV tours.
Additionally, community health outreach programs are being implemented to increase awareness of the dangers of mercury exposure and the importance of clean water by Chiefs and Queen mothers who are awakening and have decided to say no to illegal mining in their communities. While galamsey continues to provide a livelihood for many in Ghanaian societies, it is crucial to recognize the toll it could take on health of individuals associated with the practice.
An approach that includes education, health screenings, and government accountability is very vital in addressing these concerns. By highlighting the dire health effects of galamsey, we can introduce a dialogue that prioritizes the well-being of communities and seeks sustainable solutions that protect both health and the environment.
As long as the allure for gold continues, so too will the health costs emerge, making it vital for all stakeholders to recognize and address the health challenges faced by mining communities.