Business Daily Ghana’s illegal gold mines
Dec 3, 2024
Ghana's gold mining scene is thriving, yet shadowed by illegal operations known as 'galamsey'. This practice raises urgent socio-economic and environmental concerns. Over a million people rely on galamsey for their livelihoods, but their health is at risk due to dangerous working conditions and toxic mercury exposure. The podcast highlights the tension between miners, the community, and authorities, revealing the struggle for control and survival as illegal mining impacts agriculture and threatens local ecosystems.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Openly Illegal Mining
- Ed Butler witnessed illegal gold mining in Ghana.
- Miners openly admitted to lacking licenses, viewing the land as free for all.
Galamsey's Consequences
- Illegal mining, or “galamsey”, pollutes rivers and destroys farms.
- This has led to rising public anger, especially with upcoming elections.
Mine Near Border
- Ibrahim Omar manages an illegal mine near Burkina Faso, employing up to 2,500 people, including migrants.
- Miners claim they provide bribes to police for undisturbed operation.