The youth of Ghana have hit the streets to protest against the bad governance and the illegal mining activities going on in the country. Particularly, the youth and people of Ghana are much more worried about the illegal mining activity (Galamsey) that is destroying their lands, water bodies, and other resources. The call to put a stop to this has been an online activity for some time now, but after the government decided to play a deaf ear to their cries they decided to hit the streets and protest for the government of the Republic of Ghana to know how serious they are.
In the course of the demonstration, a total of 43 nationals were arrested for going against the rules and regulations laid in place by the court for them to follow for a peaceful protest. Among the people arrested are top names like Ama Governor ( a renowned lawyer and a YouTuber) Ralph and Glen. These individuals are the spearheaders of the protest. Currently, they are behind bars and their comrades are fighting for their freedom, hence the popular hashtag “Freethecitizens”.
Ama Governor while in prison, is still fighting for her motherland in good spirits. She wrote a letter from jail to her comrades to keep fighting highlighting the ordeal our forefathers and mothers went through while fighting for our freedom, this is to tell the people of Ghana not to give up on this fight against Galamsey and to tell her loved ones she's in good spirit and will continue to support from jail. Her letter has since gone viral and it deserves a mention; read the letter below;
Dear Comrades,
When I say "Aluta!, You respond Continua!
Ghana has never seen a day as great as this 3rd October 2024], where Ghana Youth, despite the lines of division planted to subvert the Strength in our unity, chooses to pick up camaraderie in marching side-by-side to fight against the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey) on the health, resources, and well-being of the Ghanaian people; demand government accountability and to free political prisoners. Nkrumah smiles as timidity wails in the face of the resilience demonstrated by this historic and remarkable protest. Today, Ghana Youth arises, and not only recommits to the struggle begun by our foremothers and fathers but has reignited the long-lost hope of realizing Nkrumah’a Ghana. A great day it is indeed, for a new dawn is upon us. Aluta! Sisters and brothers Continua!, revolutionary regards, Ama Governor.”
The protest to stop gamalsey by Ghanains has gained global attention and the likes of BBC and another renowned news agency have since broadcasted the news. The United Nations has also released a statement addressing the issue.
“Illegal and unregulated mining has devastating economic, social, and environmental consequences. We have seen this across West Africa and Ghana is no exception. Among other things, it exacerbates poverty, damages livelihoods, pollutes the environment, negatively impacts health and water, disrupts peace, and fuels illicit financial flows.
We call on all protesters to maintain a peaceful and responsible approach and on the police to maintain professionalism in protecting law and order while upholding human and civil rights.
We call on all leaders in Ghana - in Government, national institutions, political parties, traditional and religious institutions, civil society, the private sector, and all citizens - across all opinion spectrums - to work together to address this challenge. GhanaN must succeed.
The UN in Ghana supports all actions in line with the pactforthefuture including sustainability, climate action, the environment, and pollution - that secure a peaceful, brighter future for people, the planet, and generations yet unborn. This is our collective ambition.
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