President Akufo-Addo on October 3, held a high-level meeting with Organised Labour at the Jubilee House to address the ongoing menace of illegal mining, commonly known as 'galamsey.'

The meeting, which aimed to tackle the widespread environmental and socio-economic damage caused by galamsey activities, culminated in several key agreements between the government and Labour unions.

Both parties acknowledged the severe toll illegal mining has taken on Ghana’s water bodies, forest reserves, and communities. As a result, a series of commitments were made to enhance efforts against the illegal mining scourge. Among the significant outcomes were:

Collaboration to Combat Galamsey: The government, Organised Labour, and other stakeholders agreed to work together to address illegal mining activities.

Revocation of Mining in Forest Reserves Law: The government committed to repealing the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462), when Parliament reconvenes in October.

Reinforcement of "Red Zones": Both parties reaffirmed the government's position that all water bodies and forest reserves would remain "Red Zones" where all forms of mining are strictly prohibited.

Empowering Law Enforcement: The government promised to empower law enforcement agencies to eliminate illegal mining activities from these protected areas, ensuring that those caught in the act face full prosecution under the law.

Speedy Adjudication of Galamsey Cases: The Attorney-General and the Chief Justice agreed to collaborate to expedite the adjudication of cases involving illegal mining.

Depoliticizing the Fight Against Galamsey: Both sides expressed their support for a proposed pact that would require all presidential candidates in future elections to commit to depoliticizing the fight against illegal mining.

Despite these agreements, Organised Labour reiterated its intention to proceed with a nationwide strike, citing the government's failure to adequately address their concerns. According to Labour leaders, "Government’s proposal does not adequately address our demands, and therefore, our notice of strike remains unchanged."

The planned strike is expected to send a strong message to the government, urging for more decisive and immediate action to curb the devastating effects of illegal mining on Ghana's environment and economy.